ANTANANARIVO, April 29, 2026: Diplomatic tensions between France and Madagascar have escalated sharply following the detention of a former French serviceman and the subsequent expulsion of a French diplomat by Malagasy authorities. The Malagasy government alleges that a concerted plot to destabilise the country was thwarted on 18 April, sparking a vigorous protest from Paris, which has rejected the accusations as entirely unfounded.

Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa officially confirmed the detention of the French national on 28 April, stating that the suspect faces multiple charges, including criminal conspiracy and plotting to sabotage critical national infrastructure, specifically power lines and thermal power plants.

According to the prosecutor, the operation was intended to incite security forces to rebel against the current government and mobilise youth groups to create widespread civil unrest. Authorities pointed to a WhatsApp group chat, allegedly titled “Revolution of the Brave Citizens,” as primary evidence of the conspirators’ plans. In addition to the French national, other accomplices—including a Malagasy army officer and several local youths—have been charged. The young participants have reportedly been placed under judicial supervision, while the French former serviceman remains in custody at a maximum-security prison.

The situation reached a flashpoint when the Malagasy foreign ministry ordered the expulsion of a French diplomat, accusing them of direct involvement in the alleged destabilisation efforts.

The French foreign ministry immediately moved to counter these claims, summoning the Malagasy charge d’affaires in Paris to register a “vigorous protest.” In a formal statement released on 29 April, Paris rejected the accusations, describing them as “not only unfounded, but also incomprehensible given the consistent and concrete support provided by France.” The French authorities have maintained a stance of total denial regarding any participation in plots against the current administration.

The backdrop for this unrest is the turbulent transition of power on the Indian Ocean island. In October 2025, Colonel Michael Randrianirina assumed control of the country following a coup that deposed former President Andry Rajoelina, ending weeks of youth-led protests.

While the new regime initially drew support from various sectors of the youth movement, the political honeymoon has proven short-lived. Recent months have seen a fracture between the ruling leadership and the very youth activists who facilitated the transition, with some prominent figures warning the current government against “hijacking the rebellion.” This internal dissatisfaction, coupled with the legacy of political instability inherent since the island’s independence, has created a volatile environment. As a former French colony with deep political and economic ties to Paris, Madagascar’s current diplomatic friction highlights the sensitive nature of the island’s ongoing efforts to consolidate its new governance structure.