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Military members have threatened to take control of the government TV facilities in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was expected to make statement to the nation, his staff confirms, amid unverified reports that he has fled the country.

A international military plane is believed to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an secret location, following a 14 days of national rallies designed to removing him from power.

His unsuccessful efforts to appease young protesters - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him dismiss his whole government and make other compromises to no avail.

On Sunday, his staff said an effort was in progress to pressure him out of power. He has not been spotted in open since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's arranged speech to the nation has been put off numerous times - it was initially due at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a significant army force - known as CAPSAT - that helped establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to weaken him by proclaiming itself in control of all the military, while numerous of its officers aligned with activists on the roads of the capital, Antananarivo.

Following a meeting of military commanders on Monday, the recently appointed Military Commander installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, guaranteed the citizens that the armed services were cooperating to keep order in the country.

By Monday night, the officer was at government TV building trying to resolve the crisis, according to a announcement from the presidency.

Communicating on condition of confidentiality, a senior representative in Madagascar's biggest competing party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also stated it aims to bring removal actions against Rajoelina for "neglect of office".

Multiple of Rajoelina's inner circle have departed to nearby Mauritius. They include previous Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its plentiful natural resources, Madagascar is one of the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of people there reside below the economic hardship level, while information shows approximately one-third of people have access to electricity.

The protests started over dissatisfaction with repeated water and power cuts, then increased to represent more extensive dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the demonstrations, although the government has denied these figures.

Observers detail police using weapons on civilians with real bullets. In a particular situation, a baby died from smoke inhalation after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been rocked by multiple uprisings since it gained independence in 1960, encompassing large-scale demonstrations in 2009 that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Being just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - going on to lead for four years, then returning to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, before pursuing politics, had made a name for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company along the way.

But his stylish, baby-faced appeal quickly diminished, as allegations of cronyism and established corruption became persistent.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

• Regarding the Gen Z demonstrators who aim to force Madagascar's president from power
• Army general appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z demonstrations