By Enyichukwu Enemanna
The leaders of Madagascar’s Gen Z movement have kicked against the military leader, Col Michael Randrianirina’s choice of Prime Minister, saying he does represent the change they hope to see in government.
The Gen-Z protests helped topple the former President Andry Rajoelina, creating an opportunity for Col. Randrianirina to takeover government last week.
He was sworn in as head of state on Friday. Heritage Times HT reported on Monday that he named businessman Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as his Prime Minister.
But in a statement on Facebook, Gen Z Mada said the appointment was made in a “non-transparent” manner and “without consultation”.
It further added that the decision “runs contrary to the desired structural change” the movement was seeking.
The group has demanded to know how Rajaonarivelo was selected given what it says was his connection to the previous government.
“Our revolution will not be hijacked. The Malagasy youth are watching and mobilising,” Gen Z Mada said.
Protests across Madagascar, triggered by frequent water and power outages, began almost a month ago.
Led by young people, they attracted other sections of society and morphed into wider demands for political change.
Rajoelina’s calls for dialogue failed to quell the demonstrations, leading the President to go into hiding. It was widely reported that he had fled abroad.
A week ago, Col Randrianirina, the head of the country’s elite CAPSAT army unit, stepped in and announced the military had seized power.
After being sworn-in in civilian clothes on 17 October he thanked the young people who took to the streets.
“With a people in full fervour, driven by the desire for change… we joyfully open a new chapter in the life of our nation,” he said.
Gen Z Mada has not said exactly what it will do if Rajaonarivelo’s appointment is not explained or reversed, but the group has made it clear that it will continue to monitor the actions of the new administration.
“We will not allow the failed methods of the past to continue in a new form,” Gen Z Mada’s statement concluded.
