ANTANANARIVO / October 14, 2025 — Political life in Madagascar entered a chaotic new chapter today as the military seized control of the government following mass protests and the flight of President Andry Rajoelina.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of the elite CAPSAT unit, declared on national radio that the armed forces had “taken the power,” and announced the suspension of key institutions pending a transitional arrangement. “We have taken the power,” he said.
The crisis was precipitated by weeks of demonstrations, led primarily by young Malagasy citizens discontented with repeated power cuts, water shortages, and systemic governance failures. The movement, operating under the banner “Gen Z Madagascar,” evolved into demands for Rajoelina’s resignation.
Rajoelina responded by dissolving the lower house of Parliament via a decree posted on social media, but the move was ignored by a still-functioning legislature, which proceeded with impeachment efforts.
By Monday evening, reports emerged that Rajoelina had left Madagascar. Opposition leaders and diplomats confirmed his departure, citing defections within the military as a catalyst.
Amid escalating tension, the African Union’s Peace and Security Council has called an emergency session to address the unfolding crisis.
What This Means
This marks another abrupt military intervention in Madagascar’s political life, raising questions about civilian rule and constitutional stability. Many will watch whether the transitional council announced today will revert power to civilian hands or entrench military rule. The youth-led protests reflect a broader continental ferment: younger generations are increasingly unwilling to tolerate governance failures, demanding accountability in nations across Africa.
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