As the crisis in Madagascar deepens its embattled President Marc Ravalomanana has issued a direct appeal to his supporters to converge on the presidential palace to show their support. The call comes as reports are coming through that members of the presidential guard have begun to abandon their posts and armoured vehicles have been spotted in the suburbs of the capital

Some Western embassies in the country have already begun preparations to evacuate any citizens who do not need to remain in Madagascar

The political tension between Ravalomanana and opposition leader Andry Rajoelina has taken on another dimension after the Army chief of staff called on both parties to settle their difference of see the army seize power.

However Tuesday saw the army chief removed and a colonel close to Rajoelina take over as Army chief leaving Ravalomanana in a desperate position.