ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions in Madagascar, calling for restraint and dialogue to end ongoing protests.
The chairperson made the call during an urgent session of the AU Peace and Security Council, according to a statement issued on Monday.
Youssouf reaffirmed the AU's firm rejection of any unconstitutional change of government and called on all Malagasy actors -- civil, military and political -- to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue within the constitutional framework.
He said that the AU stands ready, in coordination with the Southern African Development Community and the Indian Ocean Commission to support a peaceful, inclusive and African-led solution to the crisis.
Protests erupted in Madagascar in late September, initially triggered by widespread power outages and water shortages. The demonstrations have since escalated, taking on a political dimension with calls for government reform and leadership change.
In a statement on Sunday, the Malagasy Presidency said that an "attempt to seize power illegally and by force" was underway in Madagascar. It called on all the vital forces of the nation to "rally together to defend the constitutional order and national sovereignty."
On Monday, Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina said in a video posted on social media that he has taken refuge in a "safe location" to ensure his security after an assassination attempt against him. ■