Madagascar Faces Unrest as Youth-Led Protests Demand President’s Resignation
Protesters issue a 24-hour ultimatum to President Rajoelina, threatening further action if demands are unmet.
Madagascar is currently engulfed in a wave of protests led by a youth movement known as “Gen Z,” which has issued a stark ultimatum to President Andry Rajoelina. The group demands his resignation, citing his administration’s failure to provide essential services such as water and electricity. The situation escalated dramatically on October 3, 2025, as demonstrators took to the streets of the capital, Antananarivo, following a brief pause in their near-daily protests.
Background of the Protests
The unrest began on September 25, 2025, and has since resulted in at least 22 fatalities, according to reports from the United Nations. The protests reflect deep-seated frustrations among the populace, particularly the youth, who feel neglected by a government that has struggled to address basic needs. The Gen Z movement has emerged as a vocal force, representing a generation that is increasingly disillusioned with the political status quo.
In a speech broadcast on social media, President Rajoelina condemned the protests, framing them as part of a larger coup plot orchestrated by political rivals. He claimed that some factions were attempting to exploit the unrest for their own gain, particularly while he was attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York. “What I want to tell you is that some people want to destroy our country,” he stated, although he did not specify who these individuals were.
Government Response and Escalation
In response to the protests, Rajoelina has taken significant steps, including the dismissal of his government and an invitation for dialogue with various groups. However, the Gen Z movement has dismissed his overtures as insincere, labeling his speech as “senseless.” They have issued a 24-hour ultimatum for the president to respond favorably to their demands, threatening to take “all necessary measures” if he fails to do so.
The unrest has not been confined to Antananarivo; protests have also erupted in other cities, including Mahajanga, Toliara, and Fianarantsoa. The widespread nature of the demonstrations underscores the pervasive dissatisfaction with the current administration.
The Economic Context
Madagascar, despite its rich natural resources, remains one of the poorest countries globally. According to the World Bank, approximately 75% of its 32 million citizens lived below the poverty line in 2022. This economic backdrop has fueled the protests, as citizens demand accountability and better living conditions.
The government has attempted to deflect blame for the unrest, with Foreign Minister Rasata Rafaravavitafika alleging that the country is facing a “massive cyberattack” and a “targeted digital manipulation campaign” from abroad. She claimed that “opportunistic groups” have infiltrated the protests, aiming to exploit the vulnerabilities of Madagascar’s youth.
Historical Context of Political Turmoil
Rajoelina’s political career has been marked by controversy and upheaval. He first rose to power in 2009 following a coup that ousted former President Marc Ravalomanana. After a period of international pressure that kept him from participating in the 2013 elections, he returned to the political arena, winning the presidency in 2018 and securing re-election in 2023. His tenure has been characterized by a struggle to balance economic development with the pressing needs of the population.
The Role of Youth in Political Change
The current protests highlight a significant shift in Madagascar’s political landscape, with the youth taking a central role in demanding change. This mirrors global trends where younger generations are increasingly vocal about their rights and expectations from their governments. The Gen Z movement’s emergence is not just a local phenomenon; it reflects a broader global narrative of youth activism, where young people are leveraging social media and grassroots organizing to challenge established political norms.
Conclusion
As Madagascar stands at a crossroads, the outcome of the current protests remains uncertain. President Rajoelina’s refusal to step down, coupled with the youth’s determination to demand accountability, sets the stage for a potentially volatile situation. The next 24 hours will be critical, as the Gen Z movement awaits the president’s response to their demands. The unfolding events in Madagascar serve as a poignant reminder of the power of youth activism and the ongoing struggle for political and social justice in a nation rich in resources yet burdened by poverty.
