Leaders of Madagascar’s Gen Z movement — the driving force behind protests that led to the ouster of President Andry Rajoelina — have voiced strong opposition to the new prime minister appointed by the country’s military ruler, Colonel Michael Randrianirina.
Randrianirina, who led last week’s coup and was sworn in as head of state on Friday, announced businessman Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as prime minister on Monday.
However, in a statement posted on Facebook, Gen Z Mada condemned the appointment as “non-transparent” and made “without consultation,” arguing that it contradicted the movement’s vision for deep structural reforms in Madagascar.
The group questioned Rajaonarivelo’s selection, alleging his links to the previous administration, and warned that it would not tolerate a return to old political practices.
“Our revolution will not be hijacked. The Malagasy youth are watching and mobilising,” the group said.
The Gen Z-led demonstrations, which began nearly a month ago over worsening water and power shortages, quickly evolved into broader calls for political change.
Former President Andry Rajoelina’s attempts at dialogue failed to calm the unrest, and he eventually went into hiding amid reports that he fled the country.
Colonel Randrianirina, head of the elite CAPSAT army unit, seized power last week, declaring that the military was stepping in to restore order and usher in a “new chapter” for the nation.
In his inaugural address on October 17, Randrianirina praised the youth-led protests, describing them as a symbol of the Malagasy people’s “desire for change.”
Gen Z Mada, however, maintains that the new administration must uphold the principles of transparency and accountability that inspired the uprising.
“We will not allow the failed methods of the past to continue in a new form,” the group warned, vowing to continue monitoring the government’s actions closely.
