Genesis of the Gen Z Protests in Madagascar: A Demanding Youth Challenges Leadership

Fri Oct 17 2025 01:24:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Discover the roots behind the recent protests in Madagascar, initiated by Gen Z and fueled by a mix of essential grievances and calls for political change. President Rajoelina's government faces intense pressure as demonstrators demand accountability for ongoing hardships.

In Madagascar, a surge of protests led by Gen Z has erupted over the past week, pressing President Andry Rajoelina to dismiss his government amidst rising discontent surrounding power cuts, water shortages, and economic opportunity. Unprecedented violence has marred demonstrations, leading to at least 22 fatalities. As protests grow, activists are demanding a broader political change, reflecting the dire living conditions faced by the populace.

Thousands of people in Madagascar have taken to the streets in different parts of the country for the past week, emerging as the largest wave of protests the island nation has experienced in over 15 years.

What began as anger over shortages of basic necessities has rapidly morphed into a significant challenge for President Andry Rajoelina, who has been in power since 2018. In response to escalating unrest, he dismissed his government earlier this week, an action that failed to appease the demonstrators.

Tragically, the violence has resulted in at least 22 deaths, with more than 100 injuries reported, although the government has dismissed these figures as insurgent and inaccurate.

What sparked the protests?

The genesis of this unrest can be traced back to the arrest of two leading local politicians on September 19, who had organized a peaceful rally in the capital, Antananarivo, to protest chronic power and water supply issues.

With widespread state-run utility disruptions caused by Jirama, the public's outrage surged. Many saw the politicians' arrests as an attack on legitimate dissent, galvanizing a youth-driven movement called Gen Z Mada, alongside civil society support.

The protests expanded beyond Antananarivo, catalyzing demonstrations in eight other cities, with participants condemning blackouts and accusing the government of failing to uphold basic rights.

Who is demonstrating?

The protests are spearheaded by the youth, particularly the Gen Z Mada group, using platforms like Facebook and TikTok for coordination. As public dissent grew, labor unions and civil organizations threw their support behind the demonstrations, including calls for church-led negotiations to prevent further chaos.

Notable opposition figures, including former President Marc Ravalomanana, have expressed solidarity with the protesters.

What do the protesters want?

While lacking a formal manifesto, the protests have morphed from specific grievances about public services into broader demands for political reform and the president's resignation. Protesters are calling for accountability regarding the violent actions taken against protesters and comprehensive changes in governance.

What is the government's response?

In the face of growing unrest, security forces have maintained a strong presence, employing tear gas and imposing curfews in the capital. President Rajoelina's claim that he sacked his government to rectify leadership issues failed to alleviate public frustration, as schools closed in anticipation of escalated violence.

What is life like in Madagascar?

Stricken by dire poverty, approximately 75% of Madagascar's population live below the poverty line, with only a third having access to electricity.

Is the president under threat?

Political analysts warn that if authorities continue to rely on force to quell dissent, the situation may worsen, leading to potential political fragmentation and unrest. The military's response could prove crucial in determining the government's future stability.