Madagascar detains French national over alleged plot to stir…
Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa said the French national had been charged with multiple offences including criminal conspiracy and plotting to sabotage infrastructure such as power lines and thermal plants. Speaking in a video statement on Tuesday evening, he said other accomplices – including a Malagasy army officer – had also been charged for the alleged plot, set to be carried out on 18 April. Madagascar's foreign ministry has also expelled a French diplomat for alleged involvement in destabilising the country, which France has denied.
Malagasy prosecutor Ramanantsoa on Tuesday said the suspects in the alleged plot had also been charged with spreading false information to disturb public order, and harbouring wanted individuals. Authorities referred to a Whatsapp group chat called Revolution of the Brave Citizens as evidence of their alleged plans, said to include power cuts, attempting to incite security forces to rebel against the government, and mobilising young people to create unrest. Ramanantsoa said the young members of the group have been placed under judicial supervision, while the French former serviceman is currently being held in detention at a maximum security prison.
Analysis: Why This Matters
This story matters because events involving Prosecutor Nomenarinera can ripple across regions and shape diplomatic conversations.
Key Takeaways
- Last September, the Indian Ocean island was rocked by weeks of youth-led protests, which helped topple the country's then President Andry Rajoelina.
- Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica , on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica
- Col Michael Randrianirina led the coup and was sworn in as head of state in October 2025.
Expect more international reaction in the coming hours; this story is far from settled.
Source: BBC World