Gen Z Protests Topple Government in Madagascar as President Flees

Madagascar’s president has fled the country following a massive youth-led uprising. The political crisis was triggered by widespread Gen Z protests over basic service failures. Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko confirmed the departure to Reuters.

This marks the second government to fall to a Gen Z movement in weeks. A similar protest in Nepal recently forced its prime minister to resign. The events highlight a growing global trend of youth-led political change.

Military Defections and a President in Hiding

President Andry Rajoelina left Madagascar on Sunday after key army units defected to the protesters. The opposition leader stated the president’s staff confirmed his exit. Rajoelina’s current location remains unknown.

In a subsequent address, Rajoelina claimed he was in a “safe space.” He alleged there had been attempts on his life and a coup plot. This statement came via an AFP report.

The elite CAPSAT unit, which helped Rajoelina seize power in 2009, joined the protesters over the weekend. They refused to shoot at demonstrators and escorted them in the capital. The unit then announced it was taking charge of the military.

A Broader Wave of Youth-Led Uprisings

The protests began on September 25 over frequent power and water shortages. They quickly escalated into a broader uprising against corruption and bad governance. The anger mirrors recent Gen Z movements in Nepal and Morocco.

With the president absent, constitutional procedures are now in motion. Madagascar’s laws state the Senate leader takes charge until new elections. The Senate president, a focus of public anger, has already been relieved of his duties.

The swift fall of Madagascar’s government underscores the potent force of organized youth movements. The ongoing Gen Z protests in Madagascar have reshaped the nation’s political landscape in a matter of days.

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What sparked the protests in Madagascar?

The demonstrations began over frequent power outages and water shortages. They quickly grew into a wider movement against corruption and a lack of basic services.

How did the military respond to the protests?

Key army units, including the elite CAPSAT force, defected and joined the protesters. They refused orders to shoot at demonstrators and took control of the military.

Where is Madagascar’s president now?

President Andry Rajoelina’s whereabouts are unknown. The opposition states he fled the country, while Rajoelina claims he is in a “safe space” after an attempt on his life.

What happens to the government now?

According to Malagasy law, the leader of the Senate takes charge of the country until new elections can be organized following the president’s absence.

Is this similar to other recent protests?

Yes. This event is part of a growing trend of successful Gen Z protests. A similar youth-led movement recently toppled the government in Nepal.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Associated Press, Agence France-Presse (AFP)