Africa-Press. Authorities in Madagascar have announced the arrest of a former French soldier, accused of participating in a conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the country. This included inciting a rebellion within the security forces and planning to sabotage infrastructure, which could lead to widespread power outages.
According to a video statement from Deputy Attorney General Nominanirina Mihaminetswa Ramanantsoa, the accused, Guy Barret, has been placed in pre-trial detention at the highly secure Tsiafahy prison. Investigations also involve a Malagasy army officer, Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonji, along with others suspected of involvement.
The prosecution clarified that the defendants face charges of disseminating false information to undermine public order, planning to sabotage vital facilities, including electricity lines and thermal power stations operated by the state-owned Jirama, as well as harboring wanted individuals and engaging in criminal conspiracy.
Authorities reported that the group planned to carry out actions on April 18, which included cutting off electricity, disrupting traffic, and attempting to incite security forces to rebel, as well as mobilizing youth to stir unrest.
The prosecution relied on evidence, including a group on the WhatsApp application named “Touloum-Biafothani Olom-Banona” (Revolution of Brave Citizens), which was allegedly used to coordinate these activities.
In a related diplomatic development, Madagascar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Tuesday that one employee of the French embassy in the capital Antananarivo has been declared persona non grata due to actions deemed incompatible with their diplomatic status and related to the ongoing investigation. The French ambassador, Arnaud Guilla, was summoned to be informed of the decision, without disclosing the identity of the employee involved.
These developments come amid a sensitive political context, as military leader Michael Randrianirina took power last October following youth protests that ousted his predecessor, Andry Rajoelina. Madagascar, a former French colony, is among the poorest countries in the world, despite maintaining close political ties with France, amid a history of political turmoil.
The French embassy has not issued an immediate comment on these developments, while Reuters reported that it has been unable to contact the suspects or identify their lawyers so far.
Colonel Rakotomamonji is expected to appear before an investigating judge, while two other suspects have been placed under judicial supervision, amid indications that they are not the masterminds of the plot.
