Madagascar President Flees to France Amid Mass Protests

Political Crisis Forces President Rajoelina's Flight to France

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has fled to France following weeks of massive protests that have shaken the African island nation. Multiple government officials, including opposition leader Randrianasoloniaiko, confirmed that Rajoelina was evacuated by a French military aircraft after striking a deal with French President Emmanuel Macron.

The protests, which began in late September 2025, represent the largest demonstrations Madagascar has witnessed in decades. What started as frustration over chronic water and electricity shortages has evolved into a broader movement demanding Rajoelina's resignation and addressing systemic corruption.

Military Mutiny and Government Collapse

The situation escalated dramatically when elements of the Madagascar Armed Forces joined the protesters. On October 11, 2025, units including the elite Capsat force mutinied, urging fellow soldiers to ignore presidential orders. 'This is not just about utilities anymore - this is about ending a corrupt system that has failed our people,' said one military officer who joined the protests.

Rajoelina had previously claimed there was a coup attempt underway, though he provided no evidence. His government had already been dissolved on September 29 following deadly protests that left at least 22 people dead according to United Nations figures, though the government acknowledged only 12 fatalities.

Deep-Rooted Economic Crisis

The protests reflect deeper economic troubles in one of the world's poorest nations. According to World Bank data, 75% of Madagascar's 30 million people live below the poverty line, while nearly half of children under five suffer from malnutrition. The United Nations reports that 78% of the population lives in poverty.

'We cannot accept that our children go hungry while the president's family flaunts their wealth,' said a protester in Antananarivo, referencing viral social media posts showing Rajoelina's daughter wearing designer clothes and his son attending elite schools in Europe.

International Context and Regional Trends

The Madagascar protests are part of a broader wave of youth-led movements across Africa and Asia. Similar demonstrations have occurred in Kenya, Nepal, and Morocco, where Generation Z activists are challenging corrupt governments and economic inequality.

Rajoelina, who holds dual Malagasy-French citizenship, has dominated Madagascar's politics since coming to power following a 2009 political crisis. His recent re-election in 2023 was boycotted by major opposition parties, raising questions about his legitimacy.

The French government has not officially commented on Rajoelina's arrival, but sources indicate diplomatic efforts are underway to stabilize the situation. Meanwhile, Madagascar faces an uncertain political future as opposition leaders call for transitional arrangements and new elections.