NextFin news, On Thursday, October 9, 2025, thousands of Gen Z protesters gathered in Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, to demand the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina. The protests come in response to Rajoelina's ousting of the previous government earlier this year, which many young citizens view as undemocratic and harmful to the country's future.
The demonstrators, primarily composed of young adults born in the late 1990s and early 2000s, expressed frustration over political instability and economic challenges that have intensified since the government change. They accuse President Rajoelina of consolidating power at the expense of democratic processes and call for a return to transparent governance.
President Rajoelina initially came to power in 2009 through a political crisis and was later elected in 2019. However, his recent actions to remove the sitting government earlier in 2025 have sparked widespread criticism and unrest, particularly among the younger generation who feel excluded from political decision-making.
The protests began early Thursday morning and continued throughout the day, with demonstrators organizing marches, sit-ins, and speeches in central Antananarivo. Security forces were present but maintained a largely passive stance, allowing the protests to proceed without major clashes.
Protest leaders emphasized their commitment to peaceful demonstration and urged the international community to support Madagascar's democratic institutions. They highlighted issues such as unemployment, education, and corruption as key concerns driving their demands for political change.
The government has yet to issue an official response to the protests. Analysts suggest that the growing pressure from Gen Z activists could influence future political developments in Madagascar, a country that has experienced multiple political upheavals over the past two decades.
These events mark a significant moment in Madagascar's political landscape, showcasing the rising political engagement of the younger generation and their demand for accountability and reform from their leaders.
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