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Armed forces have warned to occupy the state TV headquarters in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was expected to address the nation, his administration reports, amid unofficial reports that he has left the country.

A foreign military aircraft is said to have evacuated Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an undisclosed location, following a two weeks of nationwide rallies aimed at ousting him out of power.

His unsuccessful attempts to appease young protesters - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his complete government and make additional agreements to no avail.

On Sunday, his staff said an effort was under way to force him from power. He has not been observed in public since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's planned speech to the nation has been postponed several times - it was originally due at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a powerful army force - called CAPSAT - that supported establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to challenge him by announcing itself in charge of all the armed forces, while numerous of its members supported activists on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

Following a meeting of army officers on Monday, the recently appointed Chief of Army Staff appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the public that the armed services were working together to maintain peace in the country.

By Monday night, the general was at national TV facilities working to address the crisis, according to a statement from the administration.

Talking on understanding of privacy, a senior leader in Madagascar's major opposition party told that Madagascar was now essentially being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also stated it plans to bring removal proceedings against Rajoelina for "neglect of position".

Several of Rajoelina's top advisors have escaped to nearby Mauritius. They consist of former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its abundant mineral wealth, Madagascar is among the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the impoverishment threshold, while information shows approximately one-third of residents have access to electricity.

The demonstrations commenced over frustration with frequent water and power outages, then escalated to reflect broader unhappiness with Rajoelina's administration over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 individuals were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the initial days of the demonstrations, although the government has denied these statistics.

Eyewitnesses detail police using weapons on demonstrators with real bullets. In one case, a infant passed away from respiratory issues after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by several uprisings since it gained independence in 1960, including large-scale demonstrations in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

At the age of just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - going on to govern for four years, then resuming to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, prior to joining politics, had established himself for himself as an business owner and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his stylish, young-looking appeal quickly diminished, as allegations of cronyism and deep-rooted corruption became ongoing.

Additional information about Madagascar's emergency:

• Regarding the Gen Z activists who seek to compel Madagascar's leader from power
• Army commander appointed as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z rallies