The Spirit of Resistance: Madagascar's Youth Rise Against Corruption and Poverty

Wed Oct 22 2025 10:39:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Mass protests erupt in Madagascar, driven by the youth's urgent call for social and political reform, as frustrations over basic services escalate into a challenge against President Rajoelina's government.

In Madagascar, a wave of protests led by the youth has unfolded as thousands demand change from the government amidst rising discontent over power shortages and basic rights. Following the arrest of politicians advocating for public services, the movement—personified by Gen Z Mada—has drawn widespread attention and support, posing a significant challenge to President Andry Rajoelina. The situation has escalated to demand accountability and reforms, marking a pivotal moment in Madagascar's ongoing struggle for justice and better living conditions.

Thousands of people in Madagascar have taken to the streets in different parts of the country for the past week in the largest wave of protests the Indian Ocean island nation has witnessed in more than 15 years.

What began as anger over shortages of basic necessities has rapidly escalated into one of the most serious challenges facing President Andry Rajoelina, who has been in power, for the second time, since 2018. On Monday, in response, he sacked his government but that did not placate the protesters.

At least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 others injured in the unrest, according to the UN, although the Malagasy government has dismissed those figures and described them as based on rumours and misinformation.

What sparked the protests?

Pressure started to build following the arrest on 19 September of two leading city politicians, who had planned a peaceful demonstration in the capital, Antananarivo, over chronic power and water supply problems. There have been hours-long daily outages of the services run by state-owned utility company Jirama.

Many saw their detention as an attempt to silence legitimate dissent leading to public outrage, with the cause taken up by civil society groups and the formation of a youth-led online movement known as Gen Z Mada.

The protests have since spread beyond Antananarivo, gripping eight other cities across the island, with no signs of subsiding. Waving banners, protesters have denounced the blackouts and accused the government of failing to guarantee basic rights.

Who is demonstrating?

Initially, Gen Z Mada was coordinating the protests through social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok. The movement quickly garnered support from various labor unions and civil society organizations, with calls for church-led dialogue to prevent chaos.

Demonstrators have not issued a formal manifesto but are demanding broader political changes and accountability for the issues they face.

What do the protesters want?

Many young people are calling for the president's resignation, attributing blame for their hardships to him. They've expressed anger over public service failures and rampant corruption. Protesters are demanding accountability, with some directly calling for civil and governmental reforms.

What is the government's response?

The government has responded with heavy police presence and curfews. Rajoelina's dismissal of his government has not calmed protesters, who remain resolute in their demands for genuine reform and accountability.

What is life like in Madagascar?

With 75% of the population living below the poverty line, the lives of many Malagasy people are marked by insecurity, lack of basic services, and deteriorating living conditions.

Is the president under threat?

Political analysts suggest that the president's stance may lead to increased unrest if he maintains a hardline approach. Observers note that a pivotal factor will be the military's response to the protests.