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Military members have threatened to occupy the state TV building in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was expected to speak to the nation, his office says, amid unofficial reports that he has departed from the country.

A foreign military jet is said to have airlifted Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an unknown location, following a two weeks of countrywide demonstrations intended to removing him out of power.

His ineffective attempts to placate young activists - labeled "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his complete government and make further agreements to no avail.

On Sunday, his office said an endeavor was under way to push him from power. He has not been spotted in visible since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's scheduled speech to the nation has been delayed multiple times - it was initially scheduled at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a significant army force - known as CAPSAT - that assisted install Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to undermine him by announcing itself in control of all the armed forces, while several of its members joined activists on the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a meeting of defense commanders on Monday, the current Chief of Army Staff designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the citizens that the military were collaborating to maintain order in the country.

By Monday late afternoon, the commander was at state TV headquarters attempting to settle the crisis, according to a statement from the presidential office.

Speaking on understanding of anonymity, a senior official in Madagascar's largest competing party informed that Madagascar was now essentially being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally stated it plans to bring dismissal actions against Rajoelina for "neglect of post".

Several of Rajoelina's inner circle have escaped to close Mauritius. They include ex- Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its abundant natural resources, Madagascar is among the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of citizens there live below the economic hardship level, while information shows about one-third of residents have availability to electricity.

The rallies began over frustration with repeated water and power cuts, then increased to represent wider dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's regime over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 civilians were killed and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the demonstrations, although the authorities has denied these numbers.

Witnesses report security officers opening fire on civilians with live ammunition. In one case, a newborn succumbed from smoke inhalation after being exposed to tear gas.

Madagascar has been rocked by numerous rebellions since it achieved independence in 1960, including large-scale rallies in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Aged just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - continuing to lead for four years, then returning to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, earlier than joining politics, had built reputation for himself as an businessman and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company along the way.

But his well-dressed, young-looking appeal quickly waned, as accusations of favoritism and deep-rooted corruption became ongoing.

Additional information about Madagascar's emergency:

• Behind the Gen Z protesters who want to force Madagascar's president from power
• Defense commander appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z protests