Peaceful demonstrations across Madagascar grew into a popular uprising starting on September 25, 2025, inspired by a deep societal frustration over persistent electric and drinking water shortages. These urgent concerns inspired the protests. Today, it has morphed into a broader antigovernment movement, deeply rooted and led by the young. Inspired by movements in Kenya and Nepal, these young protestors have taken to the streets. They are boldly expressing their anger as a part of a growing movement to resist President Andry Rajoelina’s administration.
The protests erupted into full force on September 25, as the government responded to violence with the imposition of a curfew. As unrest escalated, President Rajoelina dissolved the government on September 29, hoping to quell the anger brewing among the populace. On October 1, protesters took to streets across Madagascar like never before. They protested at May 13 Square, an important historical site that embodies the struggle against political coup d’états and uprisings.
Although surrounded by heavy militarized security forces, protesters continued to gather in May 13 Square with the outbreak of violence. The territory stayed closed, but that just made their resolve stronger. Security forces met the crowds almost immediately with tear gas, rubber bullets and armored vehicles. This brutal move resulted in multiple serious injuries among the demonstrators. The situation has drawn attention from international observers, including the United Nations, which has urged authorities to “desist from unnecessary force and to uphold the rights to free association and peaceful assembly.”
As the situation intensified, accounts began to circulate of Madagascan troops refusing orders and siding with protestors. This addition has further intensified the protests in a way we’ve never seen before. The statement released by the CAPSAT unit soldiers was courageous. They called on their comrades in the military to take the side of the people.
“Let us join forces, military, gendarmes and police, and refuse to be paid to shoot our friends, our brothers and our sisters.” – Soldiers at the CAPSAT unit
The soldiers further appealed to their comrades to refuse orders to arm themselves against their own people. This military defiance accentuates a bubbling schism within the armed forces during this time of widespread civil disorder.
In light of this rapidly changing situation, President Rajoelina reacted by appointing Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as prime minister on 6 October 2025. Whoever the new prime minister is, they’ll need to act quickly and effectively to put a strong cabinet together. It will primarily feature people from the military, public order and police sectors. This decision further illustrates Rajoelina’s dependence on security forces as he tries to steer his new nation through these stormy seas.
Minister General Deramasinjaka Manantsoa Rakotoarivelo has commented on the crisis. He urged engagement in debate with those who oppose the state’s directives, a discussion that prioritizes peaceful conflict resolution.
“We call on our brothers who disagree with us to prioritize dialogue.” – Minister General Deramasinjaka Manantsoa Rakotoarivelo
As the unrest in Madagascar illustrates, there is a growing awakening of the public’s appetite for change and willingness to hold their leaders accountable. With protests growing and an increasing number of soldiers defecting to the opposition’s side, things don’t look good for the future of President Rajoelina’s administration.
