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Armed forces have threatened to take control of the government TV headquarters in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to address the nation, his office says, amid unconfirmed reports that he has departed from the country.

A foreign military aircraft is said to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an unknown location, following a fortnight of national demonstrations aimed at ousting him out of power.

His unsuccessful endeavors to appease young protesters - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his whole government and make additional compromises to no avail.

On Sunday, his administration said an attempt was ongoing to push him from power. He has not been observed in public since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's scheduled speech to the nation has been postponed numerous times - it was originally due at 1900 national time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army force - known as CAPSAT - that helped place Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to undermine him by announcing itself in command of all the army, while some of its officers joined protesters on the avenues of the capital, Antananarivo.

Following a conference of defense leaders on Monday, the new Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the citizens that the security forces were cooperating to preserve stability in the country.

By Monday late afternoon, the general was at government TV headquarters working to address the emergency, according to a announcement from the administration.

Talking on basis of confidentiality, a top representative in Madagascar's major rival party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also stated it intends to bring impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina for "desertion of post".

Several of Rajoelina's top advisors have departed to close Mauritius. They comprise ex- Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its rich natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the economic hardship level, while information shows about one-third of individuals have opportunity to electricity.

The demonstrations began over anger with repeated water and power interruptions, then increased to represent broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over significant unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 civilians were fatally injured and more than 100 hurt in the first few days of the protests, although the government has denied these numbers.

Witnesses detail law enforcement opening fire on demonstrators with real bullets. In one case, a infant died from breathing problems after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by numerous rebellions since it gained independence in 1960, encompassing extensive rallies in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

At the age of just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - continuing to govern for four years, then coming back to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, earlier than pursuing politics, had built reputation for himself as an business owner and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his stylish, young-looking attraction soon declined, as allegations of favoritism and deep-rooted corruption became ongoing.

Further details regarding Madagascar's situation:

• Regarding the Gen Z protesters who want to force Madagascar's leader from power
• Army commander appointed as Madagascar PM to suppress Gen Z rallies