Madagascar’s political crisis is steadily plummeting as a defiant Generation Z movement rejects President Andry Rajoelina’s invitation for national dialogue, insisting he must first vacate office. The youthful protesters, who have spearheaded weeks of unrest, say the president has lost moral authority to lead the nation.
Rajoelina, who just the other day dissolved his cabinet and appointed army general Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as Prime Minister, had hoped to calm tensions through what he described as “inclusive consultations.” However, the gesture was met with open hostility.
“The president’s invitation is an insult to our struggle,” declared a statement from the Gen-Z coalition that has become the face of the demonstrations. “We cannot sit at the same table with a government that brutalizes its own people.”
What began as small rallies, over water and electricity shortages in late September, has now morphed into a nationwide call for change. The Gen-Z movement accuses Rajoelina’s administration of corruption, mismanagement, and indifference to the plight of ordinary citizens in the impoverished Indian Ocean island.
The president, addressing the nation earlier this week, urged unity and understanding, saying the proposed dialogue would “create a platform to listen to citizens and resolve national challenges.” But his appeal appeared to fall on deaf ears.
On Tuesday, security forces dispersed protesters in the capital, Antananarivo, using tear gas and water cannons. The turnout was smaller than in previous days, but the resolve among demonstrators remained strong. Human rights groups report that at least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured since the protests began—a figure the government disputes.
In a swift reshuffle, Rajoelina also named new Ministers of Defense and National Security, instructing them to restore order. “Those who incite the people must not be tolerated,” he warned, sparking fears of a harsher crackdown.
Observers say that thethe president’s troubles have been compounded by growing resentment even within his own political circle. His decision to appoint a military figure as Prime Minister is seen by many as an attempt to tighten his grip on power amid the mounting unrest.
Meanwhile, the Gen-Z movement has vowed to continue its campaign until Rajoelina steps down, apologizes to the public, and dissolves both the Senate and the Electoral Commission.
the standoff continues, Madagascar—a nation long accustomed to political turbulence—finds itself once again teetering between dialogue and disorder.
