One year after Madagascar's political upheaval, tensions remain high with accusations of conspiracy and delayed elections.
Protests led to a change in leadership
One year ago, eighteen days of demonstrations, sparked by ongoing issues with water and electricity shortages, resulted in the removal of former president Andry Rajoelina from power in Madagascar. Military intervention and new leadership
In his place, the military installed Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, who pledged to organize elections within two years. However, the country’s political situation remains uncertain. Allegations of internal conspiracy
On October 19, Colonel Randrianirina accused "certain close collaborators occupying high positions" of planning a coup intended to destabilize and overthrow the current government. The local newspaper Midi Madagasikara notes that this statement points to suspicions of conspiracy within the presidential circle. Delays in constitutional reform
Despite promises of progress, the country is still waiting for a draft of a new constitution, which was expected to be ready by May of next year before being put to a public vote. The presidential election has been scheduled for September 2027. Assessing public sentiment
In September, the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung visited Madagascar to understand the mindset of the youth who had played a key role in removing Andry Rajoelina a year earlier. The report suggested that the initial euphoria around the political changes may have faded.