General among 13 facing charges in alleged Madagascar coup plot

Email: online@newsofbahrain.com

ANTANANARIVO: Prosecutors in Madagascar said Thursday that 13 people, including a high-ranking military general, are facing charges over an alleged plot to assassinate the island nation’s interim leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina.

Public prosecutor Narindra Navalona Rakotoniaina confirmed that 11 suspects are currently in custody, while arrest warrants have been issued for the remaining individuals. The charges which include criminal conspiracy and endangering state security stem from a strategic plan to topple the military-led administration that assumed power in October 2025.

The investigation has centered on senior military and political figures. While the prosecutor did not release the name of the implicated general, she noted that he had previously spoken out publicly about his intention to participate in a coup d'état. Additionally, Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, a former presidential director dismissed in January, was identified as a primary architect of the operation.

Authorities uncovered incriminating evidence during the investigation, including encrypted WhatsApp messages detailing the logistics of the hit and financial records showing funds used to finance the plot. Raids on suspects' homes also yielded specialized weapons and large sums of cash.

This alleged assassination attempt comes amidst a backdrop of intense political upheaval. Colonel Randrianirina took control following ‘Gen Z’ led protests that ousted former President Andry Rajoelina. 

Although the interim government has pledged democratic elections by late 2027, it has faced criticism for excluding youth leaders from the cabinet, creating a volatile environment where various political and military factions remain at odds.