Madagascar’s military leader assumes power after youth protests
Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as Madagascar’s president following a swift military coup that reshaped the nation’s political landscape. The takeover came on the heels of weeks of intense youth-led protests, known locally as the “Gen Z Madagascar” movement, which emerged in response to widespread dissatisfaction over the country’s economic hardships, persistent power and water shortages, and allegations of government corruption.
The demonstrations gained momentum as young people across major cities demanded accountability and better governance, culminating in the impeachment of then-President Andry Rajoelina, who subsequently fled the country.
Randrianirina, formerly commander of the elite CAPSAT military unit, became a central figure during the protests. His decision to publicly side with the demonstrators, riding an armored vehicle into the capital, Antananarivo, symbolized a dramatic alignment of military authority with youth activism. This move significantly boosted the protesters’ morale and accelerated political change.
Following Rajoelina’s departure, Randrianirina declared himself interim president, suspending key national institutions, including the Senate and the High Constitutional Court. He pledged to establish a transitional government and hold national elections within two years, framing his leadership as a temporary measure to stabilize the country.
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