Madagascar crowds cheer as military unit seizes power

Crowds celebrated in the streets of the capital Antananarivo after an elite army unit said it had seized power from the president.

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Crowds were seen celebrating in the streets of the country's capital Antananarivo.

Standing outside the presidential palace on Tuesday, CAPSAT chief Col Michael Randrianirina said the military would form a government and hold elections within two years.

CAPSAT stands for Personnel Administration and Technical and Administrative Services Corps, and is the most powerful military unit in Madagascar.

Rajoelina's whereabouts are unknown, but he has said he is sheltering in a "safe place" following an alleged attempt on his life by "military personnel and politicians". CAPSAT has denied any involvement in any such move.