An elite military unit has said it has seized power in Madagascar from President Andry Rajoelina following weeks of youth-led protests over water and power cuts across the country.

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.