Madagascar detains French national over alleged plot to destabilize country

A former French serviceman has been detained in Madagascar and charged with criminal conspiracy and plotting to sabotage infrastructure as part of an alleged plot to destabilize the island nation, authorities said Tuesday.

Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa announced the charges in a video statement on Tuesday evening. The French national was charged with multiple offenses including criminal conspiracy and plotting to sabotage infrastructure such as power lines and thermal plants. A Malagasy army officer was also charged for the alleged plot, which authorities said was set to be carried out on 18 April.

Suspects were also charged with spreading false information to disturb public order and harbouring wanted individuals. Authorities cited a WhatsApp group chat called "Revolution of the Brave Citizens" as evidence of alleged plans including power cuts, attempting to incite security forces to rebel against the government, and mobilising young people to create unrest.

Madagascar's foreign ministry expelled a French diplomat for alleged involvement in destabilising the country. France denied the accusations and summoned Madagascar's charge d'affaires in Paris to "vigorously protest" the expulsion. The French foreign ministry called the accusations "not only unfounded, but also incomprehensible given the consistent and concrete support provided by France."

Ramanantsoa said young members of the group have been placed under judicial supervision, while the French former serviceman is currently being held in detention at a maximum security prison.

The arrests come against a backdrop of political upheaval. Last September, youth-led protests toppled then-President Andry Rajoelina. Col Michael Randrianirina led the coup and was sworn in as head of state in October 2025. Some of the young people behind last year's protests have since fallen out with him, warning him not to "hijack the rebellion."