After Nepal, Gen-Z Stages Coup in Madagascar; President Flees Country Amid Massive Youth Uprising

Madagascar (The Uttam Hindu): After Nepal, another major Gen-Z-led movement has erupted, this time in the African nation of Madagascar. Thousands of young protesters took to the streets, demanding the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina over severe water shortages and the government’s failure to provide basic facilities. Amid the escalating unrest, reports confirm that President Rajoelina has fled the country.

Opposition leader Siteni confirmed that on Sunday, a section of the army joined the protesters, forcing President Rajoelina to escape. According to Siteni, staff members from the President’s office later verified that Rajoelina had quietly left the country without informing anyone. However, the Presidential Palace has not yet issued any official statement on the matter.

In a Facebook video late Monday night, Rajoelina stated that he had moved to a “safe location” to ensure his wife’s safety. He did not reveal his current whereabouts but assured citizens, saying, “I will not let Madagascar be destroyed.”

According to Reuters, sources claim that the President departed aboard a French military aircraft. Madagascar was formerly a French colony, though French President Emmanuel Macron has said he has received no official communication regarding the matter.

Reports suggest that inspired by the recent Gen-Z uprisings in Nepal and Kenya, young citizens in Madagascar began their own campaign on September 25, initially protesting against severe water and electricity shortages. The movement quickly gained momentum, and with sections of the army siding with the youth, mounting pressure forced President Rajoelina to flee the country.