Madagascar’s Gen Z Demand Real Change After Military Coup

Following a dramatic army coup that forced President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country, Madagascar’s Gen Z activists are demanding a say in shaping the nation’s political future.

The uprising, which began as protests over electricity and water shortages, quickly evolved into a nationwide movement against decades of corruption and mismanagement.

Youth leader Olivia Rafetison of the Movement Gen Z Collective said protesters initially welcomed army protection, only to see the military seize power days later under Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who has since been sworn in as interim president.

Randrianirina pledged to rule alongside a civilian government for up to two years before holding elections.

Many young activists remain cautious, fearing the revolution’s goals could be hijacked. “We’re fighting for system change, not just a new president,” Rafetison said.

With an average age of 19, Madagascar’s youth face widespread poverty and unemployment in a country where decades of political instability and repeated military takeovers have stunted progress. Despite hopes for reform, skepticism remains over whether the new leadership will deliver the change young Malagasy are fighting for.