Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina Flees Country Amid Gen Z-Led Protests  

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has fled the country after a wave of protests led by the Gen Z movement, according to officials. The protests, which began on September 25, were sparked by chronic power cuts and water shortages but quickly escalated into a broader uprising against corruption, bad governance, and poverty.

The demonstrations turned violent, resulting in clashes between protesters and security forces. According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured in the protests. The government has disputed the UN's death toll but has not released its own figures on casualties.

Rajoelina's departure comes after a key army unit, CAPSAT, defected to the protesters, citing their refusal to shoot at demonstrators. A military source revealed that Rajoelina flew out of the country on a French military aircraft on Sunday, reportedly after striking a deal with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, leader of the opposition in parliament, confirmed Rajoelina's departure, stating, "We called the staff of the presidency and they confirmed that he left the country." The opposition has called for the president's resignation and is planning to begin impeachment proceedings against him.

The Gen Z movement, which has taken to the streets to demand Rajoelina's resignation, is driven by economic grievances and frustration with the government's handling of basic services. Hotel worker Adrianarivony Fanomegantsoa, 22, expressed his reasons for joining the protests, saying, "In 16 years, the president and his government have done nothing except enrich themselves while the people stay poor. And the youth, the Gen Z, suffer the most."

The president of the Senate has been relieved of his functions, and Jean André Ndremanjary has been appointed on a temporary basis.

Credit - Reuters