A year after sparking protests that led to the ousting of President Andry Rajoelina, Madagascar's Gen Z activists say they feel betrayed by the new government's methods. The young protesters were jubilant when soldiers from the Capsat military unit joined them in October last year, leading to Rajoelina's departure and the swearing in of Colonel Michael Randrianirina as interim leader. This marked the end of weeks of anti-government demonstrations that claimed at least 22 lives.
Herizo Andriamanantena, the figurehead of the movement, expressed mixed emotions after Rajoelina's ousting, describing it as both joy and relief. However, he noted that little changes have occurred since then. When his group organized a march in April to protest the slow pace of promised reforms, the new authorities cracked down, arresting Herizo and five other activists on charges of endangering state security.
Herizo spent 13 days in police custody, recalling the harsh conditions and feeling like a criminal despite fighting for his country. His arrest, along with others, including Nomena Ratsihorimanana, was marked by violence and intimidation. Ratsihorimanana described being rammed by an SUV and beaten for around an hour, with threats to be killed.
According to lawyer Maromanana Aliarivelo, the charge of endangering state security has long been used by those in power in Madagascar to silence dissent. Felana Andriatahina, another activist, expressed feelings of betrayal, stating that it was thanks to their efforts that the new government is in power. The activists were part of a diverse movement that drew mainly urban, educated young people.
The movement, which had around 200,000 followers on its Facebook page, was hacked and deleted shortly before the military switched sides. The page, "Gen Z Madagascar," referenced the youth-led movement that brought down Nepal's government. Political scientist Ketakandriana Rafitoson noted that the movement was diverse, comprising various shades of activists.
With around 70 percent of Madagascar's population under 30, according to UNICEF, the movement had significant support. However, divisions have emerged, with one faction recently affirming its support for Colonel Randrianirina, who has promised elections by the end of next year. Another faction leader, Elliot Randriamandrato, expressed skepticism about official commemorations planned for the anniversary of the protests.
The commemorations, set to include the unveiling of a stele, a march, and an address by Colonel Randrianirina, have been met with skepticism by some activists. They fear that the events may be used to legitimize the new government's actions rather than bring about meaningful change. As the country looks to the future, the Gen Z activists' feelings of betrayal highlight the challenges of transitioning to a new government.
Key points
- Gen Z activists in Madagascar feel betrayed by the new government's methods.
- The activists were instrumental in ousting President Andry Rajoelina.
- Divisions have emerged within the movement over support for Colonel Randrianirina.
