ANTANANARIVO — Madagascar’s President, Andry Rajoelina, has fled the country to France following a wave of nationwide protests led by young people known as “Gen Z Madagascar.” The demonstrations, which began as peaceful calls for reform, quickly turned into a powerful youth-led movement demanding the president’s resignation.
In the wake of Rajoelina’s departure, Jean André Ndremanjary, a veteran politician who previously served as Prime Minister from 1993 to 1994, has been appointed interim president. Ndremanjary is widely remembered for his earlier efforts to combat corruption, strengthen social services, and promote national unity in Madagascar. His return to leadership comes at the urging of the youth movement, which hopes he will guide the country toward free and fair elections.
The protests were driven by two major grievances against President Rajoelina’s government:
- Widespread service failures — Protesters accused the administration of neglecting essential public services, including electricity and water, which were frequently cut off for long hours across major cities.
- Corruption and nepotism — Rajoelina’s family and close associates were accused of monopolizing national resources and public funds, deepening economic inequality and public frustration.
As of now, calm has reportedly returned to parts of the capital, though many citizens remain cautious. Youth leaders have vowed to continue monitoring the interim government’s actions to ensure it delivers on promises of transparency, good governance, and democratic elections.
