Madagascar's Gen Z Protesters Reject Coup Leader's Prime Minister Pick, Citing Lack of Transparency

ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR—Just days after a military takeover ostensibly supported by widespread, youth-led "Gen Z" protests, Madagascar's new military ruler has faced immediate public backlash over his choice of prime minister.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the elite CAPSAT army unit who seized power last week, was sworn in as the transitional president on Friday, October 17, 2025, following weeks of massive anti-government demonstrations that ultimately drove former President Andry Rajoelina into exile. The protests, initially sparked by chronic water and power outages, had quickly morphed into broader demands for a complete overhaul of the political system and an end to corruption.

On Monday, October 20, 2025, Col. Randrianirina named businessman and economist Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as his new Prime Minister. Rajaonarivelo, who previously chaired the National Industrial Bank and has ties to international finance organizations, was appointed to create a civilian-led government under the military council.

However, the powerful, grassroots protest movement, known as "Gen Z Mada," has publicly rejected the appointment.

In a statement released on their social media channels, Gen Z Mada expressed their "disapproval" and argued that the selection was made in a "non-transparent" manner and "without consultation" with the movement that had powered the change.

"Our revolution will not be hijacked," the group declared, emphasizing that the decision "runs contrary to the desired structural change" that they have been fighting for. The group also demanded an explanation for Rajaonarivelo's selection, particularly citing his alleged links to the previous administration.

Col. Randrianirina, who appeared in civilian clothes for his swearing-in ceremony and promised to hold elections within two years, had thanked the youth for their fervor, stating, "With a people in full fervour, driven by the desire for change... we joyfully open a new chapter."

The quick move to appoint a new head of government was intended to accelerate the transition, but the Gen Z Mada's immediate rejection underscores the fragile nature of the new regime. The leaderless, digitally organized youth movement—which drew inspiration from similar "Gen Z" protests in Nepal and other countries—has made it clear that they will continue to vigilantly monitor the actions of the new administration.

"We will not allow the failed methods of the past to continue in a new form," the statement concluded, signalling a continued mobilization until their demands for radical political and economic reform are met.

The political instability has drawn international condemnation, with the African Union suspending Madagascar's membership immediately following the military takeover. The situation remains tense as the new transitional government attempts to consolidate power while facing a highly mobilized, skeptical, and politically active youth population.