Arrests fuel fears among Madagascar’s gen Z protesters that new regime no better than one they overthrew

The recent arrests of several young activists in Madagascar have intensified fears that the military regime, which seized power last year, may replicate the corruption and repression of the government it replaced. Four Gen Z protesters—Herizo Andriamanantena, Miora Rakotomalala, Dina Randrianarisoa, and Nomena Ratsihorimanana—were detained following a demonstration demanding the setting of an election date. They face charges related to undermining state security and criminal conspiracy, allegations their lawyer says lack evidence. While two activists have been released and hospitalized, Herizo remains in custody, and two additional activists were arrested shortly after. The military takeover in October 2025, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, followed weeks of youth-led protests under the Gen Z Madagascar movement that ousted former president Andry Rajoelina. Initially greeted with optimism, many young people are now disillusioned by Randrianirina’s appointments, which critics say include members of the old corrupt elite, and by the regime’s failure to implement meaningful economic reforms. Concerns have also grown over the government’s close ties to Russia, raising questions about Madagascar’s political direction and sovereignty. The arrests have drawn condemnation from civil society groups, including Transparency International Madagascar, which warned that the crackdown signals a troubling disregard for fundamental freedoms. Observers note that the new regime appears to be repeating patterns of repression seen under the previous administration, undermining hopes for a democratic transition. The recent protests and subsequent detentions are seen as a critical test of the military government’s commitment to respecting civil liberties and political pluralism. Madagascar, an island nation with a population of 32 million, is rich in natural resources such as vanilla and precious stones but has long struggled with political instability and governance challenges. The current unrest underscores ongoing tensions between a youthful population demanding democratic reforms and a regime accused of perpetuating entrenched power structures. The situation remains fluid as calls for elections and transparency continue to grow louder.