The Foreign Desk Explainer 489: Why have Gen Z protests spread to Madagascar?
Oct 15, 2025
Madagascar is experiencing a youth-led uprising, mirroring protests across the globe. As President Rajolina flees amid escalating frustrations over basic services, youth anger boils over. Andrew Mueller delves into the shifting power dynamics, revealing Colonel Randrian-Narina's role and the military's influence. He highlights how digital connectivity and social media spark a shared sense of unrest among Gen Z, uniting them in their quest for change.
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Young Populist Toppled Amid Protests
- President Andry Rajoelina, once a youthful populist, has been ousted as Gen Z protests forced him to flee and a military officer assumed control.
- The coup stemmed from escalating protests about basic services that turned into wider anger and military intervention.
Military Reversal By CAPSAT
- Colonel Michael Randrian-Narina now leads with backing from crowds, the constitutional court, and armed forces control.
- CAPSAT, the unit he commands, both brought Rajoelina to power and has now removed him.
Businessman Turned President
- Rajoelina rose from entrepreneur to mayor and then seized the presidency in 2009, backed by military support.
- He later won elections in 2018 and 2023 despite controversy over his earlier takeover and unconventional pandemic remedies.