Russia said on Wednesday that it is closely monitoring developments in Madagascar and hopes that bloodshed can be avoided following the military’s seizure of power after weeks of youth-led protests.
The demonstrations, which began on September 25 over water and power shortages, quickly evolved into a broader uprising against corruption, poor governance, and inadequate public services.
On Tuesday, Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced that he had assumed control of the country and that a military committee would govern for up to two years alongside a transitional administration before holding new elections.
“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. We call for restraint and for the prevention of bloodshed.”
Zakharova added that Moscow hopes Madagascar will “return to the path of democratic development” soon.
Russia has expanded its influence across Africa in recent years, notably through the Wagner mercenary group, which has operated in several countries including the Central African Republic, Madagascar, Libya, Mozambique, and Mali. Reports by The New York Times and the BBC indicate that Wagner was active in Madagascar during the 2018 presidential election.
Source:Africa Publicity
