In a stunning display of youthful defiance, Madagascar’s Gen Z has just rewritten the rules of revolution. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a triumph of democracy or the beginning of a new era of military rule? Let’s dive into the story that’s shaking the world.
As the sun dipped below the horizon at Place du 13 Mai in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital, the air crackled with energy. Thousands of young protesters danced, cheered, and waved flags to the rhythm of rap and reggae, celebrating a victory that seemed impossible just weeks before. It all began on September 25, when Gen Z took to the streets, initially protesting against water and power outages. But their demands quickly escalated, calling for a complete overhaul of the political system. And this is the part most people miss: These protests weren’t just about basic services—they were a cry for systemic change in a country plagued by corruption and poverty.
Place du 13 Mai, a symbol of democracy since 40 students were killed there by security forces in 1972, became the epicenter of their movement. Initially, military police blocked protesters from reaching the square, but everything changed on October 11. The elite military unit Capsat, known for its role in past coups, unexpectedly sided with the protesters, escorting them to the square. The next day, President Andry Rajoelina reportedly fled to Dubai on a French military plane. By Friday, Capsat’s commander, Col. Michael Randrianirina, was sworn in as transitional president, promising to hold power for 18 to 24 months.
The young protesters, united under the banner of ‘Gen Z Madagascar,’ were ecstatic. Many praised Capsat for their support, while others expressed concern about transitioning from civilian to military rule. Antonio, a 17-year-old activist, captured the spirit of the movement: ‘I just want to thank Gen Z… because it was them who gave us the victory.’ But he also warned, ‘The protests are not finished. We must stay vigilant.’
Madagascar, an island nation off Africa’s southeast coast, is a land of contrasts. Rich in biodiversity and natural resources like precious gems and vanilla, it is also one of the poorest countries in the world, with a GDP per capita of just $545. Corruption is rampant, and under Rajoelina’s leadership, little had changed for the Malagasy people. With over half the population under 20, it’s no surprise that young people led the charge for change.
Gen Z Madagascar, a leaderless group organized online via Facebook, Instagram, Discord, and Signal, drew inspiration from global youth movements in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Nepal. They even adopted the skull and crossbones flag from the anime series One Piece, customizing it with a traditional Malagasy hat. Their protests were met with brutal resistance—at least 22 people were killed in the early days, according to the UN. But Capsat’s decision to side with the protesters shifted the tide, halting further bloodshed.
Aina Sarobidy Randriamiharisoa, a 28-year-old mining truck mechanic, traveled 75 miles to join the protests. He was shot in the thigh by a live bullet but remains resolute: ‘I did it for my country,’ he said, now facing amputation. His story is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made in the fight for change.
Here’s the controversial question: Is Capsat’s intervention a heroic act of solidarity or a strategic power grab? Dr. Velomahanina Razakamaharavo notes that while Capsat was once seen as ‘on the wrong side of history,’ their recent actions have shifted public perception. Yet, concerns linger. Randrianirina, the new military ruler, denies this was a coup, but some Gen Z protesters worry their revolution could be co-opted.
Tiana, a 26-year-old activist, highlights the disconnect: ‘We don’t really feel included in the decisions… He’s been listening, but never really consulting us.’ As Madagascar stands at a crossroads, the world watches to see if this youth-led movement will truly transform the nation—or if history will repeat itself.
What do you think? Is this the dawn of a new Madagascar, or just another chapter in its troubled history? Let’s discuss in the comments!
