Madagascar’s Gen Z protesters angry at coup leader’s choice of PM
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Discontent Brews After Coup Victory
The leaders of Madagascar’s Gen Z movement, whose nationwide protests helped bring down President Andry Rajoelina, have voiced strong opposition to the new prime minister appointed by the country’s military ruler.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led the coup that ousted Rajoelina, was sworn in as head of state on Friday. However, his decision to name businessman Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as prime minister has ignited new tensions among the youth-led movement that propelled him to power.
Gen Z Calls Appointment “Non-Transparent”
In a statement released on Facebook, Gen Z Mada the movement that spearheaded the mass protests condemned the appointment as “non-transparent” and “without consultation.” The group accused the new regime of betraying the revolution’s spirit and warned against recycling figures linked to the old political order.
“The decision runs contrary to the desired structural change,” the group stated. “Our revolution will not be hijacked. The Malagasy youth are watching and mobilising.”
Roots of a Youth-Led Revolution
The protests that toppled Rajoelina began nearly a month ago, triggered by widespread frustration over power outages, water shortages, and economic hardship. Initially fueled by anger at poor public services, the demonstrations evolved into a broader movement calling for accountability, reform, and generational change.
The Gen Z Mada movement became a symbol of the country’s youthful discontent, uniting students, civil servants, and workers under one call an end to corruption and political stagnation.
Rajoelina’s Fall and Randrianirina’s Rise
Facing mounting unrest and calls for his resignation, former President Andry Rajoelina appealed for dialogue but his efforts were rebuffed. As protests intensified, he reportedly went into hiding, with some reports suggesting he fled the country.
Seizing the opportunity, Colonel Randrianirina commander of the elite CAPSAT army unit announced the military’s takeover. On 17 October, dressed in civilian clothes, he was sworn in as transitional head of state, pledging to usher in “a new chapter in the life of our nation.”
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“With a people in full fervour, driven by the desire for change. we joyfully open a new chapter in the life of our nation,” he declared.
Dispute Over the Prime Minister’s Appointment
The appointment of Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as prime minister has now become the first major test for Randrianirina’s new administration. Gen Z Mada alleges Rajaonarivelo has ties to Rajoelina’s former government and argues that his selection was made without public participation a red flag for those who fought for reform.
“The Malagasy youth will not allow the failed methods of the past to continue in a new form,” the group warned, signalling the potential for renewed street protests if their concerns are ignored.
A Nation on Edge
While Randrianirina’s coup was initially welcomed by some as a reset for a struggling nation, skepticism is growing. Many fear the revolution’s momentum could be derailed if the military consolidates power without implementing real reforms.
Gen Z Mada has stopped short of calling for new demonstrations but insists it will hold the new leadership accountable. “We are watching and mobilising,” their statement reiterated.
Political analysts say Madagascar now stands at a crossroads between a chance to build a more inclusive democracy and the risk of reverting to familiar patterns of military dominance and elite politics.
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