Fears of a Coup Rise in Madagascar as Army Unit Joins Protesters

Tensions are escalating in Madagascar as a rogue army unit has publicly sided with anti-government protesters, who have been demonstrating in the streets for over two weeks. The unit, in a bold statement, has called on the country's security forces to defy their orders and refuse to use force against the demonstrators.The development has sparked fears of a potential coup, with many worrying that the situation could spiral out of control. The protesters, who have been rallying against the government, have been met with a heavy police presence, but the army unit's defection has added a new layer of complexity to the crisis.The unit's appeal to the security forces is seen as a significant move, as it could potentially erode the government's control over the military. If the security forces were to disobey their superiors and refuse to quell the protests, it could pave the way for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. However, it could also lead to a power vacuum, which could be exploited by various factions.The protests in Madagascar began over two weeks ago, with demonstrators calling for the government to address various issues, including corruption, economic stagnation, and poor governance. The situation has been closely watched by international observers, who are urging calm and restraint.As the situation continues to unfold, there are concerns about the potential for violence and instability. The Malagasy government has so far maintained a firm stance, but the army unit's defection has raised questions about its ability to maintain control. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and there are calls for a peaceful and negotiated solution to the crisis.