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**Summary:**
Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has been ousted in a military coup following weeks of Gen Z-led protests fueled by poverty, corruption, and infrastructure failures. Rajoelina attempted to dissolve parliament after impeachment proceedings began against him. However, an elite army unit defected and joined the protesters, leading to Rajoelina fleeing the country on a French military plane. The protests, initially sparked by power outages and water shortages, broadened to encompass deeper discontent with the government. The UN has reported fatalities as a result of the government’s response to the protests. The situation is set against a backdrop of widespread poverty, lack of access to basic services, and the nation’s vulnerability to climate change.
**News Article:**
**Madagascar President Rajoelina Ousted in Military Coup After Gen Z Protests**
ANTANANARIVO – Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has been overthrown in a military coup following weeks of youth-led protests against inequality, corruption, and failing infrastructure. Rajoelina is now in hiding and has fled the island nation.
The ousting comes after the National Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina, prompting the president to declare the process unconstitutional and attempt to dissolve parliament.
The protests, largely driven by Gen Z, gained momentum after an elite army unit, CAPSAT, defected and joined the demonstrators, who have been calling for Rajoelina’s removal. The unrest was sparked by widespread power outages and water shortages but soon expanded to encompass broader discontent over government failures, alleged corruption, and political nepotism.
“He has to quit. Immediately,” one protester, 21-year-old Angie Rakoto, told the crowd at May 13 Square.
The United Nations has condemned the government’s “violent” response to the protests, reporting 22 fatalities.
Rajoelina, who initially came to power in a 2009 coup and returned to the presidency in 2019, addressed the nation, acknowledging the people’s frustration. “I understand the anger, the sadness, and the difficulties caused by power cuts and water supply problems,” he said.
In a video address posted to Facebook after his escape, Rajoelina stated, “I was forced to find a safe place to protect my life today. I never stop looking for solutions.”
Madagascar faces significant challenges, including widespread poverty, with 75.2% of the population living below the poverty line in 2022. The country also suffers from limited access to clean water and sanitation, making its population, especially children, vulnerable to chronic illness and malnutrition. The World Bank notes that the country is vulnerable to climate change.
The situation in Madagascar mirrors similar youth-led protests around the world, as young people demand change and accountability from their leaders.
First Piper 