Madagascar’s Leader Flees Amid Gen Z Protests

Madagascar has entered a new political era after Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as president, just days after a military takeover ended weeks of youth-led protests and forced former President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.

The protests began earlier this month and grew in size and intensity, with students and young professionals demanding action on unemployment, inflation, and corruption. Social media played a key role in mobilising crowds and spreading messages of resistance.

“Today marks a historic turning point for our country,” Randrianirina said during the ceremony. “We joyfully open a new chapter in the life of our nation.”

At his swearing-in ceremony, Randrianirina praised the protesters and pledged reforms, including a new constitution, electoral changes, and investigations into the troubled state-owned utility company. He promised to form a government and hold elections within two years.

The Constitutional Court denied that the takeover was a coup, blaming flaws in the constitution for the crisis. Meanwhile, Randrianirina signalled a shift in foreign relations, meeting with Russian officials to discuss deeper cooperation.