The diplomatic climate between France and Madagascar deteriorated sharply at the end of April 2026. Between accusations of destabilization and suspicions of conspiracy, the Malagasy authorities hardened their tone towards Paris.

1. A diplomat declared "persona non grata"

On Tuesday, April 28, the Malagasy government ordered the immediate expulsion of an agent accredited to the French embassy.

1. The reason: Actions deemed "incompatible with his status," a diplomatic term generally referring to activities of interference or espionage.
2. Paris' reaction: The Quai d'Orsay officially protested, calling these accusations unfounded and incomprehensible , recalling France's support for the "Refounding" process of the island since the end of 2025.

2. The Guy Baret case: Towards a trial for destabilization

Alongside this expulsion, the Malagasy justice system has taken a major legal step concerning Guy Baret , a French national arrested in mid-April.

A former soldier who transitioned to the private sector, he faces serious charges:

1. Criminal conspiracy and plans to destroy public property.
2. Spreading fake news.
3. Harboring criminals.

He is suspected of having planned, with Malagasy Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy , actions aimed at sabotaging electrical infrastructure and inciting the security forces to mutiny in order to overthrow the transitional authorities. Both are currently being held in pretrial detention at the high-security prison in Tsiafahy.

3. A context of widespread suspicion

This double crisis is part of a series of tensions that began on April 17th. A controversy erupted after a list of ten French citizens presented as "mercenaries" was leaked on social media.

Although the Malagasy presidency has distanced itself from these publications, the expulsion of the embassy official seems to confirm that mistrust remains at the heart of relations between the two capitals. Paris is now urging Madagascar to maintain a "constructive dialogue" despite these areas of tension.