Madagascar’s Tumultuous Political History Amid Persistent Poverty

TDT | Manama

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Despite its abundant natural resources in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and minerals, Madagascar remains one of the world’s poorest countries. Its modern history has been marked by recurring social and political unrest, often deadly for citizens and occasionally threatening those in power.

1947 – Nationalist Uprising Repressed

On March 29, 1947, a nationalist insurrection against French colonial rule was violently suppressed, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths over more than a year. Madagascar eventually gained independence in 1960.

1972 – Government Collapse

A student-led uprising, strongly supported by high school students and workers in Antananarivo province, forced the first president, Philibert Tsiranana, to cede power to the military after a popular uprising was violently repressed.

1975–1991 – Didier Ratsiraka Era

Tsiranana was succeeded by Didier Ratsiraka in 1975. His presidency faced repeated unrest nationwide and was met with harsh repression. Ratsiraka was eventually forced to resign in the early 1990s following months of peaceful protests.

2001–2006 – Disputed Election and Ravalomanana Presidency

In the contested 2001 presidential election, tensions escalated between Didier Ratsiraka, who had returned to power in 1996, and millionaire Marc Ravalomanana. After months of protests and armed clashes, Ravalomanana was declared the winner in 2002 and re-elected in 2006.

2009 – Andry Rajoelina Takes Power

Antananarivo mayor Andry Rajoelina rallied over 20,000 supporters in 2009. The protests, marred by violence, led the military to transfer power to Rajoelina.

2018 – Opposition Protests and National Unity Government

Between April and June 2018, opposition supporters occupied Antananarivo to protest new electoral laws and demand the president’s resignation, accusing him of authoritarianism. The crisis ended with the formation of a national unity government.

2023 – Election Tensions and Rajoelina Reappointment

Leading up to the 2023 presidential election, protests surged in the capital. In June, leaked information revealed that Rajoelina had secretly acquired French citizenship in 2014. Attempts to disqualify his candidacy over nationality issues were dismissed. Curfews were imposed as the opposition boycotted the first round of voting. On December 16, Rajoelina was reappointed president. Ahead of his inauguration, he visited working-class neighborhoods to distribute solar-powered lamps to homes without electricity.

Madagascar’s history underscores a persistent struggle with poverty and political instability, even as the country continues to navigate its path toward democratic governance.