Gen Z revolution or coup against democracy? Madagascar's political upheaval harkens back to 2009

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Madagascar has entered a volatile new chapter of political upheaval and uncertainty. After weeks of Gen Z–led protests over poverty, corruption, lack of access to education, and chronic power and water shortages, the elite CAPSAT military unit defected, toppling President Andry Rajoelina’s government to the cheers of youthful demonstrators. Parliament, defying an exile‑issued dissolution decree, voted to impeach him. Colonel Michael Randrianirina has since been confirmed by the High Constitutional Court as interim head of state, pledging a transition of 18 to 24 months. Lova Tahina Rajaoarinelina, Special Advisor to President Rajoelina, denounces the military takeover as a veritable coup d’état and challenges claims of unity with youth protesters. Her analysis reveals a deepening crisis of democratic legitimacy, carried out once again by the same CAPSAT unit that helped bring Rajoelina to power in the 2009 military-backed coup.