Gen Z protesters in Madagascar accuse military government of repression
A year after Madagascar's military seized power following protests that ousted President Andry Rajoelina, Gen Z activists who helped spark the uprising now accuse the new government of repression and broken promises. Despite initial hope, young activists have faced arrests and crackdowns under the military-led regime, which they say has failed to deliver meaningful reforms.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1) · date de l'événement : 2026-09-25
One year after Madagascar’s military took control following protests that forced President Andry Rajoelina from power, the island nation’s Gen Z activists say they feel betrayed by the new regime.
In October 2025, the Capsat military unit joined weeks of anti-government demonstrations, leading to Rajoelina’s flight and Colonel Michael Randrianirina’s appointment as interim leader. The takeover ended unrest that had claimed at least 22 lives.
Herizo Andriamanantena, a 30-year-old agricultural engineer and a leading figure in the protests, recalled the initial joy and relief. However, he said only “little changes here and there” followed. When his group protested in April 2026 against slow reforms, authorities responded with a crackdown, arresting Herizo and five others on charges of endangering state security.
Herizo spent 13 days detained, describing the experience as being treated like a criminal despite fighting for his country. Another activist, Nomena Ratsihorimanana, reported violent arrest and threats during detention.
Lawyer Maromanana Aliarivelo criticized the use of state security charges as a longstanding tool to silence dissent in Madagascar. Activists like Felana Andriatahina, an eco-construction entrepreneur, called the situation a “betrayal,” noting their role in bringing the military to power.
The activists’ Facebook page “Gen Z Madagascar,” which coordinated the 2025 protests and had around 200,000 followers, was hacked and deleted shortly before the military takeover.