Russia on Wednesday said it is closely monitoring the situation in Madagascar following the military’s takeover, expressing hope that the country will avoid bloodshed amid escalating unrest.
Protests erupted in Madagascar on September 25 over water and electricity shortages and quickly evolved into a broader movement against corruption, poor governance, and the lack of basic services.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced on Tuesday that he had assumed control of the government, stating that a military committee would oversee the country for up to two years alongside a transitional administration before new elections are conducted.
“We are following the development of the situation in Madagascar with anxiety,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in Moscow. “We believe that what is happening is an internal matter of this country.”
Zakharova urged restraint and called for the prevention of violence, adding that Russia hopes Madagascar will “return to the path of democratic development” as soon as possible.
In recent years, Russia has expanded its presence across Africa, including through security cooperation and advisory roles in several countries, Madagascar among them.
Discover more from LN247
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
