Madagascar protests escalate over corruption and shortages

Mass protests have been ongoing in Madagascar, sparked by chronic power cuts, water shortages, and allegations of corruption. The demonstrations, led by the Gen Z Madagascar collective, have put President Andry Rajoelina under increasing pressure. The group issued an ultimatum, giving the president until Wednesday night to meet its demands, which include the removal of Senate President Richard Ravalomanana and investigations into businessman Mamy Ravatomanga, a close ally of the president.

The protests began on September 25 and have grown into a broader anti‑government movement. According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and 100 injured in clashes with security forces, although the government disputes the death toll. In an effort to calm the unrest, President Rajoelina dismissed his entire cabinet last week and appointed a new prime minister, General Rufin Fortunat Zafisambo. The opposition platform Firaisankina called the appointment “a provocation to the Malagasy people,” and the Gen Z Madagascar collective dismissed it as a “cosmetic maneuver.”

The collective has also refused to participate in a national dialogue planned by the president for Wednesday. The dialogue is intended to bring together spiritual leaders, students, youth representatives, and other stakeholders to discuss the country’s issues, but the group says it will only join if its demands are met. With the ultimatum set to expire on Wednesday night, Madagascar is bracing for a potential nationwide strike that could further exacerbate the crisis.

These protests are part of a larger trend of Gen Z‑led movements across the continent, with similar demonstrations occurring in Kenya and Nepal. The movement is driven by concerns over poverty, corruption, and poor governance. Madagascar, one of the world’s poorest countries, has a history of political upheaval and military rule, and the current unrest has significant implications for its stability and future.

The international community is watching closely. The United Nations has called for calm and restraint, while the African Union has urged the government to engage in dialogue with the protesters. The outcome of the protests and the government’s response will have far‑reaching consequences for Madagascar and the region.