Madagascar is gripped by widespread protests as youth and elite soldiers join forces against President Andry Rajoelina. Troops from the CAPSAT unit, which helped Rajoelina seize power in 2009, have refused orders to fire on demonstrators, while the gendarmerie has also broken ranks, acknowledging excesses during previous interventions. The unrest began over chronic power and water cuts but quickly escalated into broader anti-government demonstrations, with calls for Rajoelina’s resignation. At least 22 people have died, according to the UN, while many Malagasy fear the president may have left the country amid growing instability.