Madagascar at a Crossroads: A Citizen’s Plea for Justice, Unity, and Political Accountability
No to Violence, No to Silence — Yes to Justice and Truth
Recent events in Madagascar have exposed the fragility of our democratic institutions. The brutal attack on a young protester by law enforcement — left for dead before being rescued by residents and journalists — marks a tragic turning point in our nation’s history.
We declare: no cause, no authority, can ever justify the loss of human life during the peaceful exercise of fundamental rights.
The arrests of young researchers and activists, accused of “undermining state security” for peacefully expressing their opinions, reflect a systemic malaise: a generation dreaming of a better future yet facing growing barriers to free expression.
We stand in solidarity with all those who speak out in peace and dignity. Freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly are not privileges — they are the pillars of democracy itself.
A Nation in Crisis
Madagascar now faces a profound moral, institutional, and political crisis. Justice, education, integrity, and human dignity are under severe strain, with consequences felt in the daily lives of every citizen:
- Intellectual and professional elites are repressed or marginalized, weakening our nation’s capacity for progress.
- Corruption corrodes institutions and erodes public trust.
- Privilege and impunity granted to certain networks undermine citizen and entrepreneurial initiatives.
- Declining meritocracy threatens national stability.
Meanwhile:
- Generation Z grows up amid insecurity, with unfulfilled promises fueling frustration.
- Women, the economic backbone of our nation, remain marginalized and without stable employment.
- Education drifts away from its core purpose: empowerment and equal opportunity.
A Call to Action
Faced with this alarming situation, silence is no longer an option. We call on every citizen, institution, and national force to unite for truth, peace, and justice.
We solemnly demand:
- The immediate release of all peaceful demonstrators.
- An end to all forms of repression against Malagasy citizens — including youth, journalists, and defenders of democracy.
- An independent investigation into acts of violence causing death or injury during recent demonstrations.
- The initiation of an inclusive national dialogue involving all stakeholders.
- In the spirit of republican responsibility, the resignation of the President to allow a credible, peaceful political transition that respects the sovereignty and will of the Malagasy people.
A Message of Conscience
This call is not born of anger, but of conscience — a plea to safeguard our nation. When a government loses the trust of its people and cannot ensure justice, peace, or security, true political courage lies in restoring dialogue, trust, and dignity to the Republic.
King Andrianampoinimerina once said:
“Ny mosary no fahavaloko.”
Hunger — and, by extension, division and injustice — are our true enemies.
As long as we remain divided, poverty and injustice will prevail.
Masina ny Tanindrazana. United, we are invincible. For Madagascar — our land, our pride, our future.
Harime Sylvia RANDRIANARIVO
Elected Member, Analamanga Youth Parliament (2021)
Immediate Past President, Lions Club Antananarivo Miranandro
President, I.M.P.A.C.T Association Madagascar (2025–2029)
