Madagascar Crisis: President Rajoelina Flees Amid Gen Z-Led Protests and Military Revolt

Antananarivo: Madagascar plunged into political uncertainty after President Andry Rajoelina reportedly fled the country amid a military revolt sparked by youth-led protests over corruption and inequality. The Associated Press reported that an elite army unit turned against the government following three weeks of demonstrations in the capital.

The president’s office had announced a national address for Monday evening, but the broadcast was abruptly canceled when soldiers stormed the state broadcaster. Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko claimed Rajoelina “ran away” on Sunday aboard a French military aircraft, though the president’s office has not confirmed his whereabouts. Earlier statements described the unrest as “an attempt to seize power illegally and by force.”

Military Unit Claims Control

The elite CAPSAT unit, which had once backed Rajoelina’s rise to power in 2009, declared control over the armed forces. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, a senior CAPSAT commander, said one soldier was killed during clashes with loyalist troops but denied staging a coup. “The army has responded to the people’s call,” he stated.

Protests, which began on September 25 due to severe water and electricity shortages, have evolved into a broad movement against corruption and economic stagnation. Organized largely by Gen Z activists under the banner “Gen Z Madagascar,” the demonstrations have swept across major cities.

According to UN estimates, at least 22 people have died, though the government disputes the number. The African Union has urged calm and dialogue, while France, Madagascar’s former colonial ruler, declined to comment on reports of Rajoelina’s evacuation. The US Embassy warned citizens to stay indoors, citing a “volatile and unpredictable” situation.

Background and Context

Madagascar, an island nation of 30 million people, faces chronic poverty and political instability. Nearly 75% of its citizens live below the poverty line, and according to World Bank data, the country’s GDP per capita has dropped by 45% since independence in 1960. With a median age under 20, the nation’s youth have become a potent force demanding transparency and reform.

The current crisis marks the most serious challenge to Rajoelina’s leadership since his contested re-election. As tensions mount, observers fear a prolonged standoff could destabilize one of the Indian Ocean’s largest island democracies.