Imagine a nation where the youth rise up, not just to protest, but to completely dismantle the existing power structure. That's exactly what happened in Madagascar, where Gen Z's relentless activism led to the dramatic ousting of the president. But here's where it gets controversial: did their victory truly usher in a new era of democracy, or did it simply pave the way for a different kind of rule?
Under the setting sun on Place du 13 Mai in Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, a jubilant crowd of thousands celebrated with dance, music, and passionate speeches. This wasn't just a party; it was the culmination of weeks of intense protests led by the nation's youth. It all began on September 25th, initially sparked by frustrations over unreliable water and power services. But the protests quickly evolved into a powerful demand for a complete political overhaul.
In the early days, military police blocked the young protesters from reaching Place du 13 Mai, a location holding profound historical significance. Since 1972, when security forces tragically killed 40 student demonstrators there, it has stood as a symbol of democracy and a focal point for anti-government sentiment on the island nation. This location amplifies the emotional weight of the protests; it wasn't just any square, it was a space steeped in history and sacrifice.
Then, in a stunning turn of events on October 11th, the elite military unit known as Capsat (Corps d’administration des personnels et des services administratifs et techniques) declared their support for the protesters, escorting them to Place du 13 Mai. The very next day, reports emerged that President Andry Rajoelina had fled the country, allegedly seeking refuge in Dubai aboard a French military plane. By Friday, Capsat's commander, Col Michael Randrianirina, was sworn in as the transitional president, promising a period of governance lasting 18 to 24 months. And this is the part most people miss: Capsat had previously supported Rajoelina's rise to power, making their intervention this time around all the more surprising and complex.
The young protesters, united under the banner of "Gen Z Madagascar," were ecstatic at Rajoelina's departure. Many expressed gratitude to Capsat for their support and for providing military personnel and logistical aid. However, some harbored concerns about transitioning to military rule, preferring a new civilian-led government. Despite these reservations, they all shared a common goal: to continue fighting for a better future for Madagascar.
One such activist, Antonio, a 17-year-old with shaggy hair and a black face mask, passionately addressed the crowd at Place du 13 Mai. He emphasized that the protests were far from over and urged his fellow citizens to remain vigilant. Antonio expressed his appreciation for Capsat's assistance in reaching the "sacred place" of 13 Mai.
However, Antonio reserved his greatest praise for his fellow activists, declaring that it was Gen Z who truly drove the protests and ultimately secured the victory. His words encapsulate the spirit of youth-led activism and the power of collective action.
Madagascar, a large island nation located off the southeastern coast of Africa, is a land of contrasts. Its rich biodiversity and abundant natural resources, including precious gems and vanilla, stand in stark contrast to its widespread poverty and corruption. With a GDP per capita of just $545 last year, it ranks as one of the poorest countries in the world. Furthermore, its high ranking on Transparency International's corruption index highlights the deep-seated issues that plague the nation. The former French colony is struggling under the weight of its past and the challenges of its present.
Rajoelina's rise to power was itself steeped in controversy. While he was a civilian ruler, he initially came to power in a coup orchestrated by Capsat in 2009. After stepping aside in 2014 in favor of an ally, he returned to the presidency in 2019 and again in 2023, the latter election marred by boycotts and accusations of rigging by the opposition.
Under Rajoelina's leadership, the lives of ordinary Malagasy people have seen little improvement. The country's GDP per capita has only increased by about 22% since 2009, and only a tiny fraction of the population holds formal salaried jobs. With a population that has more than doubled in the last 30 years, and with more than half of its citizens under the age of 20, it's easy to see why the youth were ripe for revolt. The arrest of two councilors for organizing a protest against water and electricity outages served as the final catalyst.
A leaderless group calling themselves Gen Z Madagascar quickly organized online, utilizing platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Discord, and Signal to coordinate their efforts. Inspired by similar youth movements against corruption in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Nepal, they adopted the skull and crossbones flag from the Japanese anime series One Piece as their symbol. This symbol, already popular in other Asian protests, represented a desire for liberation and change.
The Malagasy security forces initially responded to the protests with brutal force, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. However, the situation shifted dramatically when Capsat announced its support for the protesters and called on the rest of the military to join them. But, boldly, it must be noted that the shooting didn't stop right away even after Capsat made their announcement, indicating a complex and fragmented response from the security forces.
Aina Sarobidy Randriamiharisoa, a mining truck mechanic, traveled a significant distance to join the protests. He was shot through the thigh by a live bullet, ultimately resulting in the amputation of his leg. Despite this devastating injury, Randriamiharisoa remained positive, stating that he did it for his country. His story highlights the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens in the pursuit of a better future.
Dr. Velomahanina Razakamaharavo, a research fellow at the University of Reading, notes that Capsat's intervention was seen as an act of courage and solidarity with the people, altering the power dynamics and preventing further bloodshed. However, she also acknowledges that Capsat's past involvement in the 2009 coup had previously cast them in a negative light.
Randrianirina, the new military ruler, was himself arrested in 2023 on accusations of plotting a coup, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Despite this, he is widely seen as a man of principle and trustworthiness. Randrianirina denies that his takeover was a coup, arguing that it was a bloodless intervention approved by the constitutional court.
Some Gen Z protesters echo this sentiment, emphasizing that Randrianirina's actions were in support of their cause. Others, however, worry that their revolution will be lost under the new regime. Tiana, a Gen Z Madagascar activist, expresses concerns that young people are not being included in the decision-making process as the political system is reformed. She notes that Randrianirina has been listening to various groups, but not necessarily consulting with the youth about their ideas.
So, what does all this mean for Madagascar's future? Is this a genuine turning point towards democracy, or simply a change in leadership with the same underlying problems? Will Gen Z's energy and passion be harnessed to build a better nation, or will their voices be drowned out by the new power structure? And perhaps the most controversial question of all: was Capsat's intervention a genuine act of support for the people, or a calculated move to consolidate power? What do you think? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
