(MENAFN) Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina announced Monday that he was taking refuge in a “safe space” following an “attempt on his life,” amid escalating political turmoil marked by weeks of intense anti-government protests.

In a live Facebook broadcast, the 51-year-old leader stated, “I was forced to find a safe place to protect my life today,” while reaffirming his commitment: “I never stop looking for solutions.”

Rajoelina’s much-anticipated national address was abruptly canceled after repeated delays, coinciding with a faction of armed forces seizing control of state-run media outlets.

“Only the constitution can resolve the crisis,” Rajoelina insisted, amid reports that he had been evacuated to France on a military plane Sunday under a so-called “deal” with French President Emmanuel Macron.

However, Macron declined to confirm the evacuation when questioned by reporters in Egypt, stating, “I just wish to express our great concern.”

Since September 25, Rajoelina has faced relentless youth-led protests fueled by severe water and electricity shortages and allegations of corruption, with demonstrators calling for his resignation.

The unrest triggered sweeping government changes, including the dissolution of the Cabinet and appointments of a new prime minister and security chiefs. Yet resistance intensified as the Army Personnel Administration Center (CAPSAT)—a military unit pivotal to Rajoelina’s 2009 rise through a coup—publicly backed the protests.

On Sunday, CAPSAT appointed a new military chief hours after Rajoelina condemned their actions as an “attempt to seize power illegally.” Prior to these events, his close allies, former Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga, departed for Mauritius on Saturday.

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