Madagascar is on the brink of political chaos. What began as street protests led mostly by frustrated youth over power outages and rising living costs has now taken a dangerous turn parts of the army have joined in.
President Andry Rajoelina’s government is calling it an “attempted coup,” as the crisis deepens across the Indian Ocean island.
According to Reuters, elite units within the military, including the CAPSAT (Support Regiment for the General Staff) and sections of the gendarmerie have sided with the protesters. They have reportedly named a new army chief, a move the government calls unconstitutional.
The Rise of a Generation’s Anger
The protests began on September 25, led largely by Gen Z activists frustrated by what they describe as “a government out of touch.” Power blackouts, fuel shortages, and the rising cost of water and food have ignited anger in a country where most people live below the poverty line.
Videos circulating online show thousands marching in Antananarivo, calling for reforms and the president’s resignation. While the demonstrations were initially peaceful, tensions escalated when security forces attempted to disperse crowds, sparking clashes that left several people injured.
Diplomacy at a Crossroads
The African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are closely monitoring the situation. Both organizations have called for calm and urged dialogue between Rajoelina’s administration and the opposition.
Analysts warn that continued instability could isolate Madagascar from global donors, including the European Union and World Bank, who have been key partners in the country’s post-pandemic recovery.
Neighboring countries such as Mauritius and Mozambique are also watching closely, fearing that unrest could spill over into regional trade and security dynamics in the Indian Ocean corridor.
What Comes Next?
The big diplomatic question is whether regional actors can mediate fast enough to prevent a total breakdown. Will external partners, including France, step in or will this become another case of internal instability left to simmer?
For many young Malagasy citizens, this is not just a political moment, it’s a cry for dignity, fairness, and functioning governance.
As the streets of Antananarivo stay tense and soldiers choose sides, the world’s eyes are fixed on Madagascar’s uncertain future.
Source: Reuters – Madagascar presidency warns of coup attempt