Madagascar has detained a French ex-serviceman in connection with an alleged plot to destabilise the island nation, according to a statement by Deputy Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa. The former French national serviceman. Guy Baret, has been placed in pretrial detention at Tsiafahy maximum-security prison.

Alleged Plot Includes Sabotage and False Information

Ramanantsoa said in a video statement released late on Tuesday that the suspects had been charged with spreading false information to disturb public order, plotting to sabotage infrastructure including power lines and thermal plants operated by state utility Jirama, harbouring wanted individuals, and criminal conspiracy. Authorities said the group had planned actions initially set for April 18.

A Malagasy army officer, Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, and other alleged accomplices were also implicated in the case. Rakotomamonjy is awaiting presentation before an investigating judge. Two other suspects were placed under judicial supervision, with prosecutors saying they did not appear to be the masterminds of the conspiracy.

France Condemns Accusations as Unfounded

France has condemned the accusations as unfounded and incomprehensible. French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux said the charge d’affaires of the Madagascan embassy in Paris had been summoned on Tuesday to vigorously protest the expulsion of the diplomatic official. He stated that France categorically rejected any accusation of destabilising the Refoundation government of the Republic of Madagascar.

“Such accusations are not only unfounded, but also incomprehensible,” Confavreux added. France also helped former President Andry Rajoelina flee in October as protests over lack of water and energy escalated and ultimately forced him from power.

Madagascar’s Political and Historical Context

Madagascar is a former French colony that retains close political links to France and has had a history of instability in recent decades. The country’s military ruler, President Michael Randrianirina, seized power in October last year, after a wave of youth-led protests against his predecessor, Andry Rajoelina.

The Madagascar Foreign Ministry said French Ambassador Arnaud Guillois had been summoned and informed of the decision over the embassy agent. It did not identify the agent or specify the acts in question.

The case has raised diplomatic tensions between Madagascar and France, with both nations issuing statements to defend their positions. The investigation into the alleged destabilisation plot continues, with more details expected as the legal process unfolds.