Madagascar has detained a former French serviceman on charges of plotting to destabilize the Indian Ocean island nation, according to authorities. The man is accused of participating in a conspiracy that aimed to sabotage key infrastructure, including power lines and thermal plants, as part of a plan to trigger unrest.
Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa announced the charges on Tuesday, which include criminal conspiracy and plotting sabotage. He stated that the alleged plot was scheduled for April 18 and involved multiple accomplices, among them a Malagasy army officer. The group allegedly used a WhatsApp chat named "Revolution of the Brave Citizens" to coordinate plans, which included causing power outages, inciting security forces to rebel, and mobilizing young people.
In a related development, Madagascar's foreign ministry expelled a French diplomat, accusing them of involvement in efforts to destabilize the country. France has denied these allegations. The French foreign ministry retaliated by summoning Madagascar's charge d'affaires in Paris to "vigorously protest" the expulsion, dismissing the accusations as "unfounded."
The prosecutor added that the suspects are also charged with spreading false information and harboring wanted individuals. While the young members of the group have been placed under judicial supervision, the French former serviceman is being held in a maximum-security prison.
Madagascar, a former French colony, has a history of political instability. The current leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, took power in a coup in October 2025, following weeks of youth-led protests that ousted former President Andry Rajoelina. Some young protesters have since distanced themselves from Randrianirina, warning him not to "hijack the rebellion."
The arrests come amid heightened tensions between Madagascar and France, which has pledged support for the island nation. The situation underscores the fragile political climate in Madagascar, where recent protests and a coup have reshaped the leadership.