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Armed forces have warned to take control of the government TV headquarters in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was expected to speak to the nation, his administration says, amid unverified reports that he has departed from the country.

A international military aircraft is believed to have airlifted Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an secret location, following a two weeks of national rallies designed to kicking him from power.

His ineffective efforts to placate young demonstrators - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his whole government and make other agreements to no avail.

On Sunday, his administration said an effort was ongoing to force him from power. He has not been spotted in visible since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army division - referred to as CAPSAT - that assisted install Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to undermine him by proclaiming itself in command of all the army, while numerous of its officers joined demonstrators on the roads of the main city, Antananarivo.

Following a gathering of army leaders on Monday, the new Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the public that the military were collaborating to maintain order in the state.

By Monday evening, the commander was at state TV facilities working to address the crisis, according to a statement from the presidential office.

Talking on condition of anonymity, a senior representative in Madagascar's major competing party revealed that Madagascar was now effectively being run by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore announced it aims to bring removal proceedings against Rajoelina for "abandonment of post".

Multiple of Rajoelina's inner circle have escaped to adjacent Mauritius. They comprise former Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Regardless of its rich raw materials, Madagascar is among the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of citizens there live below the impoverishment threshold, while data shows about one-third of individuals have access to electricity.

The protests started over frustration with frequent water and power interruptions, then increased to reflect more extensive discontent with Rajoelina's administration over high unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

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

Witnesses describe law enforcement using weapons on civilians with lethal rounds. In one case, a newborn passed away from breathing problems after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been rocked by several protests since it obtained independence in 1960, encompassing extensive protests in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

Being just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - continuing to govern for four years, then coming back to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, prior to entering politics, had established himself for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company along the way.

But his well-dressed, baby-faced attraction quickly diminished, as allegations of nepotism and entrenched corruption became ongoing.

Further details regarding Madagascar's situation:

• Regarding the Gen Z protesters who aim to force Madagascar's president from power
• Army commander named as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z rallies