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A multitude of protesters opposing Madagascar's head of state were joined on the avenues of the capital on Saturday by military personnel from an specialized army unit, who earlier in the day declared they would not shoot at demonstrators.

Proceeding With Military Vehicles

Activists walked with military personnel from the Capsat unit, who operated military cars, some waving national flags, from their base in Soanierana in the southern part of Antananarivo.

Speaking to the Crowds

A Capsat commander, Lylison René de Rolland, then addressed the enthusiastic gathering in front of the town hall in 13 May Square, which activists had before been denied entry to. Capsat troops installed the current president, Andry Rajoelina, to authority in a takeover in 2009.

Increasing Tension on the Head of State

The soldiers' involvement ratcheted up strain on Rajoelina, who activists have been demanding resign. The youth-led protests broke out on 25 September, originally over utility shortages. However, they swiftly broadened into demands for a comprehensive reform of the political system, with the younger generation protesters not placated by Rajoelina removing his government last week.

Law Enforcement Response

Earlier in the day, law enforcement deployed flashbangs and riot control agents to try to disperse the demonstrators. The newly named military affairs minister also called on troops to "stay composed", at a media briefing on Saturday.

"We urge our colleagues who oppose us to prioritise dialogue," military minister Deramasinjaka Manantsoa Rakotoarivelo declared. "Madagascar's armed forces continues to be a mediator and represents the country's ultimate protection."

Army Resistance

However, a Capsat commander joined by a sizable contingent of military personnel called on other military units to "refuse orders to attack your friends", in a recording that was shared on social media before they departed from their barracks.

"We should unite, troops, gendarmes and law enforcement, and refuse to be paid to shoot our friends, our brothers and our compatriots," he stated, also appealing to military personnel at the airport to "stop all planes from leaving".

"Close the gates and expect our instructions," he said. "Disregard directives from your officers. Point your firearms at those who order you to fire on your military brothers, because they will not support our families if we perish."

Leader's Lack of Response

No information has been shared on the head of state's social media accounts since Friday night, when he was photographed discussing with the heads of 10 of the nation's higher education institutions to talk about enhancing students' lives.

Activist Concerns

An protester who joined that day's demonstrations said she was apprehensive about the role of Capsat, due to their part in the 2009 takeover that brought Rajoelina to power. She also criticised politicians who made short speeches to the crowds in front of the municipal building as "those seeking advantage".

"That's why I'm not rejoicing at all, because all of those figures circling this 'situation' are all concerning," said the protester, who requested anonymity for fear for her safety.

Young Generation Viewpoint

A representative of Gen Z Madagascar, a non-hierarchical group of youth that has supported the arrangement of the demonstrations, also voiced concerns about what would transpire in the future. "We feel pleased, but significant events are unfolding [and] we don't want another corrupted person to assume control here, so we will take all measures to have the opportunity to select who to install in leadership," he commented.