What You Need to Know
• Protests against former President Andry Rajoelina’s government began a year ago due to power and water shortages.
• At least 22 people died and over 100 were injured during the unrest, according to United Nations figures.
• Former Senate President Ravalomanana has been in pre-trial detention for seven months amid legal proceedings following the protests.
Former Senate President Ravalomanana has been in pre-trial detention for seven months after being arrested in December 2025 for failing to respond to a summons from the gendarmerie. The protests against former President Andry Rajoelina’s government, which began a year ago due to ongoing power and water shortages, resulted in at least 22 fatalities and over 100 injuries, as reported by United Nations figures. The unrest led to a political crisis, culminating in Rajoelina’s removal and the establishment of a new administration led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina. Ravalomanana is facing multiple legal challenges, including accusations of directing violent actions to suppress demonstrations, although his defense team argues there is insufficient evidence linking him to the violence.
Why It Matters
The protests and subsequent political upheaval in Madagascar highlight significant public discontent with government performance, particularly regarding essential services like electricity and water. The unrest has led to a shift in power dynamics, with Colonel Michael Randrianirina now at the helm following Rajoelina’s ousting. Ravalomanana’s legal troubles reflect broader accountability issues facing former officials in the wake of the protests. The situation underscores the challenges of governance in Madagascar, where political instability and public dissatisfaction have deep historical roots.
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