A Gen-Z-led protest has toppled another government, this time in Africa

Madagascar has been rocked by a wave of massive demonstrations over chronic water and electricity shortages, causing President Andry Rajoelina to dissolve the government on September 29, 2025.

The decision came after days of deadly upheaval, sparked mostly by dissatisfied youths seeking not only basic amenities but also broad political reforms.

Following familiar themes of young people demanding better governance, the protests are said to have been inspired by the Gen Z-led protests in Kenya and Nepal.

In Nepal, protests orchestrated by the country’s youth led to the complete dissolution of its government, while in Kenya, the protests that began last year over tax hikes have led to massive reforms, including some reconstruction of the government.

Much like Nepal, in Madagascar, the protests, which saw many young people chanting “We want to live, not survive,” forced the president of the country to cave in, agreeing to take down the very government he is heading.

“We acknowledge and apologise if members of the government have not carried out the tasks assigned to them,” Andry Rajoelina said in a televised national address on Monday.

“I understand the anger, the sadness, and the difficulties caused by power cuts and water supply problems. I heard the call, I felt the suffering, I understood the impact on daily life,” the president added.

According to the UN’s human rights chief, security personnel used “unnecessary force” to try and end the protests, resulting in the killing of at least 22 people and the injury of approximately 100 people.

The UN’s figures were refuted by Madagascar’s foreign ministry, which claimed the information was “based on rumours or misinformation.”

The Madagascaran protesters adopted a flag from Nepal, where they compelled the prime minister to step down this month.

They utilized the internet, organizing strategies akin to those employed in Kenya last year, which resulted in the government abandoning proposed tax legislation.