Gen Z Activists Overthrow Madagascar President: A Warning for African Leaders?

This week, Madagascar experienced a significant shift in power as youth-led protests forced President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country. This upheaval is reminiscent of the events that initially brought Rajoelina, 51, to power in 2009, which also stemmed from a youth-driven uprising. The recent protests signal a broader trend of unrest spearheaded by Generation Z across Africa and beyond.

Background of Protests in Madagascar

The protests in Madagascar are part of a growing wave of youth-led movements that have emerged globally. Young people, particularly those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction with governmental failures. Their demands often revolve around corruption, limited job opportunities, and poor governance.

Key Events in Madagascar

• President Andry Rajoelina was ousted by military action amid escalating youth protests.
• Michael Randrianirina, a military commander previously aligned with Rajoelina, now leads the country.
• A spokesperson for the protests, Elliot Randriamandrato, described the situation as a “half-victory.”

Generation Z and Global Trends

Similar movements have unfolded in various countries. For instance:

• In Nepal, protests against government corruption and restrictions on social media led to the ousting of the prime minister.
• A “Gen Z revolution” in Bangladesh resulted in the removal of long-time leader Sheikh Hasina following weeks of protests.
• Sri Lanka saw a successful youth uprising that toppled the ruling regime in 2022.

Implications for Africa

The situation in Madagascar raises questions about the potential for similar movements across Africa. The continent, which has the youngest population globally, has seen increased activism among its youth. In Morocco, for example, the “GenZ 212” movement criticizes government priorities, while protests in Kenya have emerged over a controversial financial bill.

Experts warn that African leaders must take heed. Kingsley Moghalu, a public policy expert, indicated that underperforming leaders should be wary of the rising consciousness among young people regarding their political power. As youth movements gain traction, they could invigorate other protests that have previously lost momentum across the continent.

Challenges Ahead

The power dynamics in Madagascar and the rest of Africa remain complex. While Madagascar’s protests result in a military takeover rather than a elected successor, other leaders face mounting pressure. In Kenya, President William Ruto defied calls for resignation amid ongoing demonstrations.

Moreover, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda may face challenges from opposition leader Bobi Wine, reflecting the growing discontent among the youth. The uncertainty surrounding leadership transitions highlights the precarious situation in many African nations.

A Call to Action

Moghalu emphasizes that the failure of governance is the core challenge facing the continent. Young people, representing over half the population, are increasingly unwilling to tolerate corruption or inadequate job prospects. Their willingness to mobilize through technology could herald a new era of youth-led uprisings in Africa.

The recent events in Madagascar serve as a crucial reminder for African leaders. The potent combination of dissatisfaction, mobilization, and the Gen Z drive for change threatens to reshape political landscapes across the continent.