Tensions are escalating in Madagascar amid fears of a coup, as the presidency confirms that soldiers have threatened to seize state TV headquarters just as President Andry Rajoelina was expected to address the nation. That address has now been delayed several times.

There are unconfirmed reports that Rajoelina has fled the country, reportedly evacuated by a French military aircraft to an undisclosed location, following two weeks of mass youth-led protests under the banner Gen Z Mada.

Despite sacking his entire government in an attempt to calm unrest, the president has not been seen in public since Wednesday, fuelling further speculation.

A powerful military unit, CAPSAT, which helped Rajoelina take power in 2009, has turned against him, claiming control of the armed forces. Some of its officers have joined protesters in the capital, Antananarivo.

On Monday, General Demosthene Pikulas, newly installed by CAPSAT, appeared at the state TV building, stating the military is working to restore order.

The opposition TIM party says it will initiate impeachment proceedings, accusing Rajoelina of abandoning his post, while several close allies have reportedly fled to Mauritius.