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Madagascar faces a deep political crisis as President Andry Rajoelina flees amid mass protests and a military rebellion. Citizens demand his resignation over corruption, inflation, and poor governance. The nation stands on the edge of unrest and potential anarchy.
Madagascar in Turmoil
Antananarivo: Madagascar is currently experiencing a serious political and social crisis. President Andry Rajoelina fled the country amid nationwide protests and threats to his life. He acknowledged this in a Facebook Live video, though he did not disclose his current location.
The protests began on September 25, 2025. Initially, people took to the streets due to severe water and electricity shortages, but the movement soon escalated into a widespread mass movement against inflation, poverty, and alleged corruption in the government. People demanded President Rajoelina's resignation.
On October 12, sections of the Madagascar military rebelled against the government. President Rajoelina called it an "attempt to seize power by force." Significantly, the army's CAPSAT unit—which played a key role in bringing Rajoelina to power in 2009—declared itself in the country's military command and denied firing on the protesters.
A military source told Reuters that the president was flown out of the country on October 13 by a French military aircraft. He had previously been flown to Sainte-Marie Airport by helicopter. Although French President Emmanuel Macron declined to confirm this, he expressed deep concern about the situation in Madagascar.
Madagascar president Andry Rajoelina
In the capital, Antananarivo, thousands of citizens, joined by some security personnel, gathered outside City Hall and began demanding Rajoelina's resignation. Young protester Finaritra Manitra Andrianamelasoa said he wants the president to apologize and resign honestly so that the country can hold elections and elect new leadership.
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The crisis in Madagascar is not just a political development but a symbol of deep public sentiment and youth discontent. This movement has become part of the Generation Z protest wave rising in other parts of the world, including Nepal.
It remains to be seen whether President Rajoelina formally resigns or the situation worsens. Currently, the country stands on the brink of anarchy.
