Madagascar authorities have detained a former French serviceman accused of involvement in a plot to destabilise the island nation, including alleged plans to incite military mutiny and sabotage critical infrastructure.
The suspect, identified as Guy Baret, is said to have been placed in pretrial detention at Tsiafahy maximum-security prison following an order from prosecutors. Officials allege he worked with others to plan coordinated actions aimed at disrupting public order and national stability.
According to Deputy Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa, the group is accused of planning sabotage operations targeting power infrastructure, including state-run utility systems operated by Jirama, with the intention of causing widespread blackouts and civil disruption.
Authorities also allege the suspects planned to incite security forces to rebel against state institutions, disrupt transport systems, and mobilise youths to create unrest. The alleged activities were reportedly scheduled for April 18.
The case also implicates a Malagasy army officer, Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, along with several other individuals, some of whom have been placed under judicial supervision while investigations continue.
Prosecutors say evidence includes communications from a WhatsApp group named “tolom-piavotan’ny olom-banona” (“Revolution of the Brave Citizens”), which allegedly served as a coordination platform for the plot.
In a related development, Madagascar’s foreign ministry declared a French embassy staff member in Antananarivo persona non grata, accusing the individual of activities incompatible with diplomatic status and linked to the ongoing investigation. The ministry said the French ambassador, Arnaud Guillois, was formally summoned and informed of the decision.
The French embassy has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Madagascar, a former French colony and one of the world’s poorest countries, has experienced repeated episodes of political instability. The current military leadership under President Michael Randrianirina came to power in October last year following youth-led protests that ousted his predecessor, Andry Rajoelina.
Authorities say investigations into the alleged conspiracy are ongoing, and further legal proceedings are expected as more suspects appear before an investigating judge.
