Madagascar ( The COW News Digital)In a historic and unprecedented turn of events, Generation Z protesters in Madagascar have successfully overthrown the government following weeks of massive anti-regime demonstrations. President Andry Rajoelina has reportedly fled the country, and the national parliament has been officially dissolved, marking the end of his controversial rule.
The uprising, largely driven by young citizens under 30, began nearly three weeks ago amid widespread anger over rising inflation, corruption, and poor governance. What started as scattered student marches in the capital, Antananarivo, quickly grew into a nationwide movement — one that the local media is calling the “Gen Z Revolution.”
On Tuesday, the army intervened and announced that it had assumed control of the country. Military spokesperson Colonel Michael Randrianarina appeared on state television declaring that the parliament was dissolved and that a transitional military council would now govern Madagascar. He further announced that the council would implement reforms and prepare for general elections within the next two years.
“The armed forces have stepped in to preserve national stability and restore public trust,” Colonel Randrianarina said during his televised address. “Our priority is to protect the people and to ensure a fair political transition that reflects the will of the youth.”
Eyewitnesses in the capital reported celebratory scenes in the streets as thousands of young protesters cheered the army’s move, waving national flags and chanting slogans demanding “a new beginning.” However, reports also emerged of sporadic clashes between loyalist police units and demonstrators, particularly near government buildings and the presidential palace.
According to local and international news agencies, at least 22 people have been killed and hundreds injured since protests erupted on September 25. The military has since imposed a nightly curfew and urged calm while assuring citizens that essential services will remain functional.
The United Nations and the African Union have both issued statements calling for restraint and the immediate restoration of democratic order. “Madagascar’s future must be decided through peaceful dialogue and respect for constitutional principles,” a UN spokesperson said.
Analysts say this is one of the first large-scale youth-led revolts in Africa in recent years, signaling a growing frustration among younger generations across the continent with long-standing political elites.
