Madagascar’s President Flees as Gen Z-Led Protests and Military Revolt Spark Political Upheaval

After weeks of mounting unrest in Madagascar, President Andry Rajoelina has reportedly fled the country amid an unprecedented alliance between Gen Z protest movements and elite military factions, raising fears of a coup in the African island nation.​

From Youth Protests to Potential Coup

Demonstrations began on September 25, initially over chronic water and electricity shortages, but quickly evolved into a broader anti-corruption revolt powered by Madagascar’s youth. The country, where more than 75% of the 30 million citizens live below the poverty line and the median age is under 20, has seen a 45% drop in GDP per capita since independence in 1960. The movement, dubbed “Gen Z Madagascar,” has voiced anger over inequality and government inaction—sparked by frustration but powered by the next generation.​

Military Sides With Protesters

Over the weekend, the powerful CAPSAT military unit—previously instrumental in Rajoelina’s own rise to power in 2009—declared it had seized control of the nation’s armed forces, including land, air, and naval branches. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, a CAPSAT commander, said one soldier died in clashes but denied staging a full coup, claiming, “The army has responded to the people’s calls.” Soldiers appeared alongside protesters in Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, parading in armored vehicles and providing protection to masses who filled public squares.​​

President’s Disappearance, Army Takes Control

As rumors swirled about his whereabouts, opposition figures stated that President Rajoelina had escaped Madagascar aboard a French military plane, though the president’s office has not confirmed his location. A planned televised address to the nation was canceled after rebel soldiers stormed the state broadcaster. Meanwhile, the CAPSAT unit named a new army chief and asserted total control over the security apparatus.​​

International Response and Human Cost

The United Nations reported at least 22 deaths since the protests began, while diplomatic missions urged citizens to avoid public areas. France, Madagascar’s former colonial ruler, and the U.S. embassy have both called for restraint. The African Union warned against violence and urged both the military and civilian population to respect peace and constitutional order.​

A Generation’s Call for Change

The “Gen Z Madagascar” movement signals a watershed moment, echoing similar youth-led upheavals from Nepal to Kenya. Young people have driven the protests into a nationwide challenge to entrenched poverty and entrenched leadership, demanding genuine reform.​

As Madagascar’s new military leadership pledges order and dialogue, the fate of Africa’s largest island nation—and whether it can achieve a peaceful transition—remains uncertain amid global calls for calm.