Madagascar’s president is ousted in an army coup after weeks of youth-led protests – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

On October 14, 2025, a dramatic shift in Malagasy politics unfolded as military forces loyal to Colonel Michael Randrianirina orchestrated a coup d’état, ousting President Andry Rajoelina after weeks of sustained youth-led protests. The overthrow marked a pivotal moment in Madagascar’s political history, blending grassroots unrest with institutional defiance. This article examines the coup’s causes, consequences, and implications for the nation’s democratic framework, exploring how systemic grievances culminated in a violent power transition.

Analysis

This section dissects the factors that fueled the coup, from public grievances to military intervention, while evaluating its broader societal and geopolitical ramifications.

Origins of the Protests

The unrest began in late September 2025, sparked by chronic energy shortages and water scarcity. Over 75% of Madagascar’s population lives in poverty, according to World Bank data, exacerbating frustration with a government perceived as ineffective. Demonstrations initially focused on infrastructure failures but evolved into a broader critique of corruption and political stagnation. By October 7, CivicTech Madagascar reported 200,000+ citizens engaging in protests, leveraging social media to share live footage of power outages and municipal neglect.

Youth Leadership and Digital Organizing

Gen Z activists, unaffiliated with traditional parties, spearheaded the movement. With over 60% of Madagascar’s population under 25, digital platforms like TikTok and Facebook amplified calls for accountability. Hashtags such as #DerechoAgua_85 (Water Rights Movement) trended internationally, drawing attention to systemic poverty and environmental degradation linked to climate change.

Military Intervention: CAPSAT’s Role

CAPSAT, Madagascar’s elite naval force, decisively shifted allegiance on October 10. Col. Randrianirina declared the formation of a transitional council to replace Rajoelina, citing “the need to restore constitutional order.” This mirrored its 2009 role in ousting Marc Ravalomanana but diverged by avoiding prolonged rule, unlike past coups. The military’s rapid consolidation of power—seizing communication channels and state weapons depots—highlighted institutional preparedness.

Aftermath of the Coup

Rajoelina, 51, evaded arrest and fled to a “safe zone” by October 11, accusing the military of plotting his assassination. His government denounced the coup as a “lawless seizure of power,” though international observers noted CAPSAT’s actions aligned with constitutional Article 104, permitting military intervention if the president fails to comply with legal mandates.

Summary

The October 2025 coup underscored Madagascar’s struggle to balance grassroots activism with authoritarian governance. While the protests’ success in unseating Rajoelina reflects public discontent, the military’s takeover raises questions about the rule of law and the efficacy of future political transitions.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For citizens navigating post-coup instability:

Stay Informed Through Verified Channels

Rely on outlets like Radio Nationale Malgache and BBC Afrique for updates, avoiding unverified social media claims.

Prioritize Safety During Government Shifts

Protests may persist; avoid curfewed areas and adhere to CAPSAT’s security directives.

Engage in Local Governance

Community leaders advocate for decentralized decision-making to address immediate needs like energy distribution.

Points of Caution

Key risks include:

Constitutional Sacking of Institutions

CAPSAT’s suspension of the High Constitutional Court risks normalizing extrajudicial power grabs.

Economic Volatility

Vanilla exports (20% of GDP) and tourism could face disruptions as uncertainty deters investors.

Regional Domino Effects

Instability may embolden separatist movements in neighboring Comoros or Mauritius.

Comparison

With Nepal and Sri Lanka Protests

Like Nepal’s 2020 anti-government demonstrations and Sri Lanka’s 2022 unrest, Malagasy youth leveraged decentralized coordination to pressure leaders. However, unlike those nations, Madagascar’s military defectors possess active enforcement capacity.

With 2009 Coup Dynamics

Rajoelina’s 2009 takeover also involved military collusion, but the current coup saw broader civilian participation, suggesting a maturing political ecosystem.

Legal Implications

The coup’s legality hinges on constitutional interpretations:

Validity of CAPSAT’s Actions

Article 104 of Madagascar’s constitution allows armed forces to act if the president violates laws. However, unilateral power transfers bypassed judicial oversight, conflicting with the principle of separation of powers.

Accountability for Rajoelina’s Decree

His attempt to disband parliament before fleeing may constitute high treason under Malagasy law, pending investigations by CAPSAT’s new judicial oversight body.

International Law Considerations

The African Union may invoke Chapter VII of the Constitutive Act to mediate disputes, though Madagascar’s non-alignment policy complicates formal intervention.

Conclusion

Madagascar’s 2025 coup epitomizes the tension between popular mobilization and institutional resilience. While youth activism reshaped the political landscape, the military’s decisive role complicates prospects for democratic renewal. The coming year will test whether the transitional council can address endemic poverty and restore institutional trust.

FAQ

Sources

1. Life Pulse Daily – Primary reporting on the coup and protests.
2. Radio Nationale Malgache – Real-time updates on CAPSAT operations.
3. World Bank Poverty Assessment (2024 data).
4. African Union Statement on Non-Alignment and Conflict Resolution.
5. Constitutional Court of Madagascar (Article 104, 1994 Charter).