Just a few months after a protest led by young people compelled the President of Madagascar to step down and leave the nation, activists are expressing disappointment in the current government, considering it even more oppressive than the one they overthrew.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, whose military unit supported the protesters, assumed power on March 25. He garnered backing by pledging to restore public confidence and combat corruption. He took steps such as appointing an anti-corruption head and subjecting cabinet members to mandatory lie detector tests.
However, the recent detention of activists has raised alarms. Activist Arimamy Todisoa believes that the crackdown on freedom of expression contradicts the essence of the revolution that occurred last October.
“It’s just a new facade, but it embodies the same criminal network, the same powerful elite,” he conveyed to guest host Nora Young on As It Happens.
Todisoa, a founding member of Gen Z 261, a youth movement in Madagascar, disclosed that six members of their group had been apprehended. These individuals face charges related to undermining state security and engaging in criminal conspiracies.
Todisoa insists that substantial and systemic transformations are imperative for the country’s progress. Here are some excerpts from his dialogue with Young.
Upon learning about these recent arrests, following the celebratory events last October, what was your initial reaction?
I felt disheartened and disillusioned because these practices resemble those of the prior administration. We anticipated a revolution, but instead, we are witnessing a return to dictatorship. It’s merely a different facade.
After a protest movement on April 10, how many members of your group have been arrested since then?
There have been six arrests. Five individuals remain in custody, two are hospitalized, three are held at the criminal investigation unit of the National Police, and one has been released.
What are the charges leveled against those who have been detained?
They are accused of posing threats to state security and engaging in criminal conspiracies. If any evidence exists, it is likely fabricated to suppress our voices and prevent us from criticizing the practices of this new regime.
What are the primary demands of your movement?
We advocate for the dissolution of institutions such as the National Assembly, High Constitutional Court, and Independent Electoral Commission, which have perpetuated constant crises in our country.
So, what changes would you like to witness?
We seek a thorough systemic overhaul — a radical transformation of the system — as it no longer prioritizes the welfare of the populace. Instead, it serves the interests of politicians and their families, fostering the enrichment of the corrupt while the majority of the population experiences deepening poverty.
We refuse to abandon our nation in pursuit of a better future.
Why do you think young people, in particular, are increasingly participating in these protests?
We are tired of being told that leaving the country is our sole option, as if we are not indigenous to this land, as if Madagascar does not belong to us. We are determined to end this narrative because we are Malagasy, and Madagascar represents our heritage.
Why must we depart our homeland for a brighter tomorrow? Why must our parents urge us to strive diligently