Gen Z Disappointed as Activists Arrested Following New Regime's Takeover
Disappointment is beginning to envelop the youth in Madagascar following the arrest of several Gen Z activists who previously drove political change in the country. This action by the authorities has triggered concerns that the new regime is no better than the old government they overthrew.
Four young activists, namely Herizo Andriamanantena, Miora Rakotomalala, Dina Randrianarisoa, and Nomena Ratsihorimanana, were arrested on 12 April 2026. The arrests occurred two days after they participated in a demonstration demanding clarity on the general election schedule.
Their lawyer, Aliarivelo Maromanana, stated that his clients are accused of weakening state security and involvement in criminal conspiracy. However, he emphasised that the charges are unfounded.
“They all deny it and there is no evidence at all,” he said, as reported by The Guardian on Monday (20/4/2026).
This action has drawn attention because it occurred under the leadership of Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who came to power through a coup in October 2025 following a wave of large protests driven by Gen Z youth groups.
In response to the arrests, presidential spokesperson Harry Laurent Rahajason asserted that the government is not interfering in the legal process.
“In Madagascar, there is separation of powers. The presidency has nothing to do with cases handled by the national police,” he said.
Some activists have been released. Two of them were briefly hospitalised, while as of the end of last weekend, Herizo was still detained. Police stated that the activists did not experience violence during detention.
However, the situation heated up after two other activists were arrested a few days later, though no official details on the case have been provided.
Hopes Dashed, Reforms Fail to Materialise
Previously, the youth celebrated the fall of President Andry Rajoelina in October. However, that euphoria has now turned into disappointment.
Many circles assess that the new government is still filled with old elites perceived as corrupt, and has yet to bring tangible improvements in the economic sector or public services.
Ketakandriana Rafitoson from Transparency International Madagascar views these arrests as a bad signal for democracy.
“This raises serious concerns about fundamental freedoms. Patterns like this occurred in the previous government and were expected to stop, but apparently not,” she said.
Madagascar itself still faces various structural challenges. The island nation with a population of around 32 million is one of the poorest countries in the world. According to World Bank data, per capita GDP in 2024 was only US$545 or approximately Rp9.26 million per year.
Demands for Reform and Foreign Concerns
Gen Z groups assess that there have been no concrete reforms since the change of power. They also highlight the importance of transparency in the process of drafting the new constitution. Leader of Gen Z Madagasikara, Elliot Randriamandrato, said the public is still awaiting concrete steps from the government.
“For now, there are no real reforms. That’s why society is frustrated because they don’t see clear changes,” he said.
He also highlighted the electoral system, which is deemed unfair. “Currently, the system only allows people with more money to win,” he added.
On the other hand, the government’s closeness to Russia has sparked new concerns. The government reportedly received military aid such as trucks, helicopters, and tanks after a visit to Moscow.
Activist Shely Andriamihaja warned of the potential risks of foreign influence. “We are very concerned about the risk of the country being controlled by foreign parties,” she said.
This situation places the new regime under significant pressure, especially from the younger generation that was once the main supporter of change.