Madagascar is in turmoil. President Andry Rajoelina’s government faces mounting protests, primarily against high unemployment and rising living costs. These protests began on September 25, sparked by widespread frustration over water and power shortages.
Recently, an army unit called CAPSAT declared it was now in charge of the military. This is significant, as CAPSAT previously helped Rajoelina rise to power during a political crisis in 2009. The unit has openly supported the protests, with some troops even joining demonstrators, which has increased tensions.
Rajoelina accused the military takeover of attempting to undermine the government. He urged citizens to rally in defense of the constitution. Meanwhile, protests intensified, with demonstrators reaching May 13 Square— a pivotal site for past uprisings— for the first time since the unrest began. Protesters celebrated this achievement as a major win.
Volker Türk, the UN human rights chief, called for restraint from security forces, citing that at least 22 people had died and over 100 were injured during the unrest. However, Rajoelina disputes these numbers, claiming that most casualties were looters or vandals.
The discontent reflects a long history in Madagascar. Since gaining independence in 1960, the nation has seen numerous uprisings. Despite its rich natural resources, about 75% of the population lives in poverty, with limited access to basic services. Currently, only roughly one-third of the 30 million residents have electricity, according to the International Monetary Fund.
This latest protest movement, dubbed “Gen Z Mada,” gained traction largely through social media, appealing to younger generations. Their efforts mark the most substantial challenge to Rajoelina since his re-election in 2023. As tensions escalate, Aden Berenji, a political analyst, emphasized that the ongoing protests could drastically reshape Madagascar’s political landscape.
In a recent Twitter poll by a leading Malagasy journalist, 80% of respondents expressed support for the protests. This reaction indicates a significant shift in public sentiment, suggesting widespread dissatisfaction with Rajoelina’s leadership.
In this climate of unrest, the world is watching closely. The outcome of these protests could determine not just the future of Rajoelina’s government, but also the fight for democracy in Madagascar.