2025 Madagascar Protests

The 2025 Madagascar protests are widespread demonstrations that began on 25 September 2025 in the capital Antananarivo against power and water outages. The protests quickly turned violent and spread to major cities across the country. The United Nations reported that at least 22 people were killed and over 100 were injured during the protests. In response to mounting pressure President Andry Rajoelina dismissed Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and the entire cabinet on 29 September 2025.

As the demonstrations continued into October the Central Administration of Army Personnel CAPSAT a unit within the military announced its support for the protesters. On 14 October 2025 troops under the command of Colonel Michael Randrianirina entered the Presidential Palace and took control of the government. The High Constitutional Court ruled on 15 October that President Rajoelina had been removed from office and on 16 October 2025 the African Union suspended Madagascar’s membership following the military’s seizure of power.

Causes of the Protests

The primary cause of the mass protests that began in Madagascar is the prolonged and chronic power and water outages. Residents of the capital Antananarivo and other cities have faced electricity cuts exceeding 12 hours per day and regular water shortages.

The failure to resolve these outages over an extended period has been viewed not only as an infrastructure problem but also as a sign of administrative incompetence and lack of political will. The youth population formed the vanguard of the protests. Young people particularly those organized through social media rapidly extended the actions beyond Antananarivo. The organization and symbols used in the protests have been compared to the “Gen Z” demonstrations in Kenya and Nepal.

The demonstrations were not limited to demands for basic services but evolved into a broader movement opposing the government’s economic and political policies. Protesters also raised demands for anti-corruption measures improvements in public services and political reforms.

Beginning of the Protests

The protests began in Antananarivo on 25 September 2025. In the first days thousands of people marched along the capital’s main avenues carrying signs protesting water and electricity cuts. Initially peaceful the demonstrations soon encountered security forces.

Police used tear gas and plastic bullets to disperse crowds after which street protests involving stones and barricades began. Demonstrators erected barricades by placing stones and tires on roads and set the tires on fire. Some groups targeted shopping centers and stores in the capital looting them and launched attacks on supermarkets and public buildings.

Spread of the Protests

The protests that began in Antananarivo quickly spread to different regions of the country. While initial large-scale actions were concentrated in the capital within a few days demonstrations also took place in the port city of Toamasina in the north Antsiranana in the center Antsirabe in the west Mahajanga and in the north Diego Suarez. In addition residents of Fenoarivo a town located 20 kilometers from Antananarivo also took to the streets.

In city centers protesters blocked roads erected barricades and caused complete disruptions to public transportation. Demonstrations in Antananarivo spread to neighborhoods resulting in widespread transportation disruptions across the city.

Youth gathering around universities attempted to march toward the city center with signs and songs but police intervened with tear gas. Social media and Facebook were used to organize the protests and calls rapidly reached large segments of the population.

As the protests expanded violence also increased in other cities. In Toamasina numerous businesses were looted and shops were forced to close. Outside the capital especially offices of the national water and electricity company became targets as the public viewed these institutions as responsible for the crisis.

Government and Security Forces’ Interventions

As soon as the protests began security forces implemented intensive measures in Antananarivo and other cities. From the first days police attempted to disperse crowds using tear gas and plastic bullets. At several locations violent clashes erupted between security forces and demonstrators with street confrontations involving stones and barricades.

As the demonstrations grew, police used not only plastic bullets but also live ammunition. The United Nations stated that security forces employed “disproportionate and unnecessary force,” resulting in deaths and numerous injuries.

As the situation in Antananarivo escalated, military units were also deployed. Joint patrols of police and soldiers were observed on the streets, and several squares and avenues were fully placed under the control of security forces. Security forces carried out large-scale interventions, particularly around university areas, preventing protesters from advancing toward the city center.

During police interventions, many individuals were arrested. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that arbitrary arrests had taken place and that peaceful demonstrators had been detained.

The government-aligned authorities did not attribute the violence solely to protesters; they also stated that certain groups had exploited the unrest to carry out looting and arson. The Presidential Spokesperson posted on social media: “People’s homes were looted and property destroyed.”

Curfews and Security Measures

In response to the rapid escalation of protests into violent incidents, the government imposed a curfew in the capital, Antananarivo. The decision, first announced on 25 September 2025, was enforced between 7:00 PM and 5:00 AM. The General Staff and security officials stated that the curfew was implemented “to maintain public order and protect the safety of people and property.”

During curfew hours, security forces conducted patrols in city centers and controlled entry and exit points. Military units were deployed alongside security forces in Antananarivo.

The imposition of the curfew caused major disruptions to transportation. Public transit in Antananarivo was nearly halted, and traffic in the city was largely shut down. Some flights were canceled for security reasons, while others were redirected to other cities.

Despite the curfew, protests continued into the night in many neighborhoods. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators occurred throughout the night, particularly due to barricades and vehicles set on fire. Authorities announced that the curfew would remain in effect until the protests ended.

Deaths and Injuries

According to a statement issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on 29 September 2025, at least 22 people lost their lives and over 100 were injured during the demonstrations. The Malagasy government rejected the UN figures. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the reported numbers “did not come from official sources but were based on rumors and misinformation.”

Dissolution of the Government

As protests spread and violent incidents increased, President Andry Rajoelina first dismissed the Minister of Energy. Despite this move, the protests continued. Under mounting pressure, Rajoelina on 29 September 2025 decided to dissolve the government. Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and all cabinet members were removed from office, but it was announced that the current cabinet would continue handling routine affairs until a new government was formed. In a national television address, Rajoelina apologized to the people, saying, “We did not adequately meet the needs of the public.”

In the same speech, the president gave a promise of reform and announced that direct dialogue with youth would be established. He also pledged support for the business community affected by looting. Acknowledging the scale of the protests, Rajoelina stated, “I understand the people’s anger and distress; I have heard their calls.”

Despite the government’s dissolution, protesters and the opposition refused to accept Rajoelina remaining in office. Protesters, through messages posted on social media, demanded not only the resignation of the government but also the departure of the president and the mayor of the capital.

Opposition and Civil Society Responses

As the protests grew, opposition parties and civil society organizations mobilized. The opposition coalition Firaisankina declared that it would not join any new government as long as President Andry Rajoelina remained in office. Opposition leader Rivo Rakotovao called for Rajoelina’s resignation.

Protesters demanded not only the removal of the government but also the dismissal of the prime minister and the administrator of Antananarivo. Young people organized via social media found the president’s apology and the dissolution of the government insufficient.

Civil society organizations have supported demands to combat corruption and improve public services, while some representatives have stated that the looting has undermined the legitimacy of the protests. Pope Leo has called for peace to end the violence from the Vatican.

Military Developments and Coup Allegations

Following President Andry Rajoelina’s dissolution of the government on 29 September 2025, protests continued into the first week of October. On 10 October 2025, approximately 1,000 demonstrators in Antananarivo marched demanding Rajoelina’s resignation. Police used tear gas, sound bombs and plastic bullets to disperse the crowd.

On 11 October 2025, the elite military unit CAPSAT (Centre Administratif du Personnel des Armées et des Services Techniques), affiliated with the Malagasy armed forces, issued a statement supporting the protests. In a video released by CAPSAT officials, they stated, “The country is facing the collapse of essential services. Security forces must not blindly follow illegal orders.” On the same day, the unit’s commander, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, declared, “We have responded to the people’s call,” asserting that their actions did not constitute a coup and that they stood with the public. CAPSAT announced that all orders for the army, air force and navy would henceforth be issued from its headquarters.

On 12 October 2025, the Presidency announced that an “attempt to seize state power in violation of the constitution and democratic principles” had occurred. In a national address, President Rajoelina called for the defense of the nation’s sovereignty and constitutional order. On the same day, during a military ceremony in Antananarivo, General Demosthene Pikulas was appointed as the new commander of the armed forces by CAPSAT. Defense Minister Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo attended the ceremony and stated, “I give him my approval.” General Pikulas declared, “The army’s mission is to restore peace and stability throughout the country.”

The Presidency characterized CAPSAT’s actions as an “illegal seizure of power aimed at destabilizing the country.” A heavy military presence was reported in the capital, but no official information was released regarding direct clashes. The U.S. Embassy warned its citizens of a “highly unpredictable environment,” while the African Union called on all parties to exercise “calm and restraint.”

During this period, Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo (a military officer) was appointed, and the government declared its readiness to engage in dialogue with all segments of society. As political tensions escalated, the Senate removed Senate President Richard Ravalomanana, known for his close ties to Rajoelina, citing the need to “meet demands for justice, stability and transparent governance.”

As protests continued, CAPSAT soldiers joined demonstrators at 13 May Square in Antananarivo, where barriers imposed under military cordons were removed to allow public access. Protesters reiterated their demands for the president’s resignation, a public apology from him, and the dissolution of the Senate. On the same day, Air France-KLM suspended its Paris–Antananarivo flights between 11 and 13 October 2025 citing security concerns.

Developments as of 12–13 October 2025

Claims Regarding President Rajoelina’s Departure from the Country

On the night of 12 October 2025, it was alleged that Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina was transported by helicopter from the capital Antananarivo to the island of Sainte-Marie, where he boarded a French military transport aircraft and was evacuated from the island. According to reports from the French national radio station RFI, the operation took place under the supervision of French military authorities, with Rajoelina first taken to the island of La Réunion and then to an undisclosed location with his family.

French-based sources indicated that the evacuation was conducted with the knowledge and approval of the Paris government, but “without any intention of military intervention.” The French government has not issued an official statement on the matter, and Rajoelina’s whereabouts have been kept confidential.

In response to claims that the president had left the country, Malagasy authorities initially remained silent, later stating only that Rajoelina was “in a safe location.” However, during the same hours, international news agencies published eyewitness accounts confirming that a French military aircraft had departed from Sainte-Marie Airport on the night of 12 October.

It was not until the morning of 13 October that clarity emerged regarding whether Rajoelina had left the country. Media both locally and internationally continued to report and debate the claim that the president had been evacuated under French military protection.

The President’s “Safe Location” Statement and Address to the Nation

On the evening of 13 October 2025, President Andry Rajoelina confirmed in a live broadcast on his official Facebook page that he was “in a safe location.” This marked his first public statement since the CAPSAT unit within the military expressed support for anti-government protests.

Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina – (Anadolu Agency)

In his speech, Rajoelina claimed that there had been “assassination attempts and coup plots” against him in recent weeks, stating, “Since 25 September, there have been repeated attempts on my life and coup attempts.” He explained that he had moved to a secure location “to protect his life.”

Rajoelina emphasized that the only way to resolve the crisis was to uphold the constitution and maintain the existing legal order. He declared, “There is only one path to resolve these issues: respect for the current constitution.” He reiterated his call for national unity, saying, “We must be open to dialogue to preserve our country’s unity and emerge from this crisis.”

The speech, which had been postponed twice, was published online. The postponements were attributed to an armed group’s attempt to seize control of the state television and radio stations.

Rajoelina did not respond to calls for his resignation and continued to stress the necessity of preserving constitutional order. Representatives of the Gen Z Madagascar movement, which has led the ongoing protests, deemed his statement inadequate and affirmed that “the movement will continue.”

Developments in Parliament and Political Institutions

Shortly after his 13 October 2025 statement, President Andry Rajoelina announced the dissolution of the National Assembly. This decision coincided with the opposition parties preparing to initiate impeachment proceedings against the president on grounds of “abandoning his duties.”

The president’s decision was met with criticism both within the Assembly and among opposition ranks. Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko declared the dissolution “legally invalid,” noting that the Speaker of the Assembly had not been officially informed.

Following the dissolution, Rajoelina appointed Lova Tahina Rajaoarinelina as “special advisor responsible for institutional relations.” The presidency stated that this appointment aimed to ensure temporary coordination between the state institutions.

Military Developments

Between 13 and 14 October 2025, there was significant movement within Madagascar’s military structure. In a joint statement, Chief of Staff General Demosthene Pikulas and Gendarmerie Commander General Nonos Mbina Mamelison affirmed that security forces were “working together to maintain order and constitutional stability across the country.” The statement clarified that the military’s mandate was to ensure national security without intervening in the course of protests.

On the evening of 13 October, Defense Minister Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo held an emergency meeting with military commanders. The purpose of the meeting, according to official sources, was to prevent internal divisions within the armed forces following the CAPSAT unit’s participation in protests and to restructure the chain of command.

In recent days, senior military appointments have been made. Following statements by CAPSAT unit leader Colonel Michael Randrianirina, General Demosthene Pikulas was appointed Chief of Staff and General Nonos Mbina Mamelison was appointed Gendarmerie Commander. These appointments signaled a reorganization of the security forces’ command structure. Military sources stated that CAPSAT’s activities “did not aim to overthrow the government” and affirmed the military’s commitment to the country’s constitutional order.

Protests and Public Mobilization

As of 13 October 2025, protests continued in the capital Antananarivo and other major cities. Demonstrators demanded President Andry Rajoelina’s resignation, a public apology, and the calling of new elections.

Thousands gathered in Antananarivo, particularly around the City Hall and Independence Square. Some soldiers and security personnel joined protesters in the squares. Reports indicated the presence of military vehicles in the area, but no direct intervention by the armed forces against the crowds.

Mourning ceremonies were held for those killed during the demonstrations, and religious leaders called for peace. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights reiterated its earlier report of 22 deaths and hundreds of injuries, though the government has not officially confirmed these figures. The majority of the protests were organized by the youth movement Gen Z Madagascar.

International Reactions

French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking during a summit in Egypt on 13 October, stated that “the preservation of constitutional order and institutional continuity in Madagascar is of utmost importance.” He emphasized that France had not engaged in any military intervention but affirmed that “constitutional order must be upheld for the sake of the country’s stability and the people’s well-being.”

Representatives of the African Union Commission and the Regional Security Council announced they were closely monitoring the situation in Madagascar and called on all parties to “avoid violence and seek solutions within the constitutional framework.”

Additionally, Air France-KLM announced the suspension of its Paris–Antananarivo flights until the end of the weekend due to security concerns. French civil aviation authorities also updated their advisory regarding “security risks” in Madagascar’s airspace.

Army Seizes Control in Madagascar

On 14 October 2025, the military in Madagascar announced it had taken control of the government following weeks of anti-government protests. According to local media sources, units under the command of Colonel Michael Randrianirina from the Center for Army Staff Administration (CAPSAT) entered the Presidential Palace in Antananarivo and seized control of the country.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who seized power on behalf of the military in Madagascar, 15 October 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)

In a statement issued by the military, the constitution was suspended and the activities of the government and several state institutions were temporarily halted. In a declaration issued on behalf of the military, CAPSAT units announced they had assumed control of the country and would establish a temporary administration.

The Presidency condemned the military’s statement and labeled CAPSAT as a “military rebel group.” The presidential statement emphasized that the declaration to suspend the constitution was “illegal” and that this action constituted “an outright coup attempt.” It further stated that President Andry Rajoelina remained in office and was “ensuring the preservation of constitutional order and national stability.”

Decision of the Constitutional Court

On 15 October 2025, the Supreme Constitutional Court of Madagascar issued a statement declaring that it had “invited Colonel Michael Randrianirina to temporarily assume the duties of the presidency.” The court’s ruling stated that President Andry Rajoelina was unable to effectively carry out his duties, creating a constitutional vacuum, and that therefore the military’s establishment of a temporary administration had become necessary.

The ruling declared the presidency “vacant” and called for Randrianirina to “temporarily assume the office of head of state.” The same ruling mandated that elections be held within 60 days.

The court also emphasized that the new period would be defined as a “transition phase,” during which state institutions would be restructured and stability restored. Following this decision, the military asserted it was acting within the constitutional framework, stating its goal was “the reorganization of state governance and the guarantee of public security.” The Presidency, however, rejected the court’s ruling, maintaining that the existing constitutional order remained in force.

With the Constitutional Court’s decision, executive authority in Madagascar effectively passed to the military and the civilian government’s powers were terminated. This development is recorded as the first official transfer of power in the country’s political history since the 2009 military intervention.

Removal of President Rajoelina and His Departure from the Country

On 14 October 2025, Madagascar’s National Assembly voted to remove President Andry Rajoelina from office. The assembly members decided to remove him on the grounds that he had “failed to fulfill his responsibilities in governing the country” and had “violated his constitutional obligations by abandoning the nation.”

Rajoelina confirmed on 12 October that he had left the country due to “serious threats to his life.” International press outlets reported that Rajoelina was evacuated by a French military aircraft, first from Sainte-Marie Island to La Réunion, and then transported to a third country.

In a national address on 13 October 2025, the President stated he was “in a safe location” and had temporarily left the country “to safeguard his life.” In his speech, he emphasized the need to preserve constitutional order, declaring that “the only way to resolve this crisis is to respect the existing constitution.” The National Assembly also declared the President’s post-departure “dissolution of the Assembly” decree as “legally invalid.”

Announcement of the Transition Period

On 15 October 2025, the Malagasy military announced that the country had entered a two-year transition period. According to the statement, during this period the restoration of public order, the drafting of a new constitution, and subsequent general elections are planned.

The military administration stated that executive authority during the transition would be exercised by Colonel Michael Randrianirina. It also announced that the interim government would be named the “Reconstruction of the Republic” and that Randrianirina would take the oath of office as “Transitional President” on 17 October 2025.

As it outlined its plan for restructuring the country, the military declared that all state institutions except the National Assembly had their activities suspended. Among the suspended institutions were the Supreme Constitutional Court, the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Senate, the High Council for the Defense of Human Rights, and the High Court of Justice.

In its statement, the military identified the primary objectives of the transition period as “the restoration of peace, stability and public order in the country.” It affirmed that the constitutional order would be reestablished in the future and that a transition to a civilian government based on the will of the people would be achieved.

International Reactions and Suspension of Madagascar’s African Union Membership

Following the military’s seizure of control in Madagascar, the African Union (AU) announced on 16 October that it had suspended Madagascar’s membership. AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf stated that the decision took immediate effect, emphasizing that “the rule of law must be preferred over the rule of force.” The AU statement noted that the military intervention was incompatible with its principles and called for the restoration of the democratic process in Madagascar.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a statement issued on 15 October 2025, expressed “deep concern” over the unconstitutional change of government in Madagascar. Guterres’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, noted that the Secretary-General had urged all parties to “work together to find a peaceful solution and address the root causes of the crisis.” The UN statement also emphasized its readiness to cooperate with the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to “restore peace and stability.”

SADC announced it had established a mediation team under its mandate to safeguard regional peace and security. The team will be chaired by former Malawian President Joyce Banda. In a written statement, SADC Chairperson and Malawian President Peter Mutharika stated that “no Malagasy citizen should suffer further loss of life” and called on all parties to “exercise restraint and engage in dialogue.”

Colonel Michael Randrianirina’s Oath-Taking Ceremony (17 October 2025)

On 17 October 2025, in the capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo, Colonel Michael Randrianirina took the oath of office as the country’s new president. The ceremony was organized by the High Constitutional Court and marked the beginning of the transitional period following the military’s seizure of power on 14 October.

The oath-taking ceremony occurred after weeks of political crisis and the removal of President Andry Rajoelina. Rajoelina was dismissed on charges of abandoning his duties, following a decision by the legislature on 14 October; it was later confirmed that he had left the country within the same week.

A large number of guests attended the ceremony. Representatives of youth movements, politicians, civil society organization members, and the ambassadors of the United States, the European Union and France to Antananarivo were present. In his speech at the ceremony, Colonel Randrianirina announced that elections would be held within 18 to 24 months and stated that “the country will return to civilian rule.” He added, “Madagascar has not chosen a military regime; the government belongs to civilians. The Presidential Council will consist of both military personnel and civilians.”

Randrianirina also announced that consultations had begun to appoint a prime minister to be determined by consensus. The 51-year-old commander of CAPSAT emphasized that “restoring the country’s stability and unity is the top priority.”

The Rajoelina camp has characterized the High Court’s decision and Randrianirina’s appointment as “filled with procedural violations and legally invalid.” The ceremony has been recorded as Madagascar’s third military transition since its independence in 1960. Similar military interventions occurred in 1972 and 2009.