France Pledges Support for Madagascar's Transition After Military Coup

French President Emmanuel Macron has offered concrete support to Madagascar's newly installed president, Michaël Randrianirina, following the military coup in October that ousted former president Andry Rajoelina. In their first phone call on November 29, 2025, Macron proposed "new funding" to address key challenges faced by Madagascar, including combating food insecurity in the south, providing medical assistance in the capital Antananarivo, and advancing urban development projects.

Macron emphasized the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations and expressed support for Madagascar’s ongoing national consultation process aimed at political reforms. These reforms include efforts to combat corruption and the organization of elections within a reasonable timeframe. The French president encouraged the inclusion of youth and civil society representatives in these transitional processes, recognizing the role of the younger generation in the country’s political landscape.

The military coup, which took place on October 12, has heightened anti-French sentiment among some Malagasy citizens, particularly after France facilitated the exfiltration of former president Rajoelina—a move that provoked local anger. President Randrianirina credited the youth-led Gen Z Madagascar movement for their significant participation in protests leading up to the military intervention, which he described as necessary to prevent chaos.

France has pledged to support Madagascar's political transition in partnership with international allies, aligning with the aspirations of the Malagasy people, especially the youth. Macron's outreach signals a desire to maintain collaboration and stability during this delicate period.