By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Ex-French Soldier Detained in Madagascar Over Alleged Coup Plot, Embassy Official Expelled
Madagascar authorities have arrested a former French army officer accused of masterminding a plot to destabilise the country through coordinated acts of sabotage and incitement within the security forces.
The suspect, identified as Guy Baret, is currently being held at the high-security Tsiafahy prison while awaiting trial, according to Deputy Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa, who confirmed the detention in a video statement on Tuesday.
Officials allege that Baret and his collaborators planned a series of disruptive actions aimed at triggering unrest, including encouraging mutiny among security personnel, damaging critical infrastructure such as electricity networks, and inciting public demonstrations.
Investigators say the alleged scheme was intended to unfold around April 18 and involved coordinated efforts to cause power disruptions, block transportation systems, and provoke unrest among young people and security operatives.
Prosecutors further claim that evidence recovered includes a WhatsApp group named “Brave Citizens’ Revolution,” which was allegedly used by the suspects to coordinate activities and share plans.
Alongside Baret, a Malagasy army colonel, Patrick Rakotomamonjy, has also been implicated and is currently awaiting trial. Authorities say two additional suspects remain at large.
In a related development, Madagascar’s foreign ministry announced that an intelligence official attached to the French embassy in Antananarivo has been ordered to leave the country over conduct deemed incompatible with diplomatic status.
The ministry did not disclose the official’s identity or specific allegations.
The French ambassador has been summoned by Malagasy authorities for briefing on the decision, though Paris has not yet issued a formal response.
President Michael Randrianirina, who assumed office in October following youth-led protests that ousted his predecessor, has yet to comment publicly on the arrests.
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