Madagascar’s ‘Coupvolution’ Is Following a Familiar Pattern

Madagascar’s ‘Coupvolution’ Is Following a Familiar Pattern

Gen Z protesters now have buyer's remorse.

Crowds of people gather to demonstrate after soldiers entered the presidential palace, seizing power and suspending the constitution, in Antananarivo, Madagascar on Oct. 14. November 6, 2025, 12:01 AM Comment icon View Comments ( )

After weeks of sustained youth-led demonstrations against President Andry Rajoelina, Madagascar’s elite Capsat military unit defected from the government last month and joined the protesters. Shortly after, Capsat’s commander, Col. Michael Randrianirina, announced that the military had removed Rajoelina from power. Protesters were initially enthusiastic, convinced that their efforts had directly forced change.

But the alliance they welcomed brou