SUMMARY

The supporters of Andry Rajoelina, the mayor of the capital who ousted the sitting president in 2009, were particularly constituted of young people. When Rajoelina, a 32-year old former DJ, was elected mayor in 2007, he was seen as coming from nowhere. His energetic campaign that sent a message to the youth to “seize the day” and portrayed him as somewhat of a pop star, appealed to many people, especially the young. Many of his supporters also belonged to the “Determined Malagasy Youth opposition movement”, set up by Rajoelina in his campaign for mayor.

Eventually, in March 2009, Rajoelina and his supporters gained the support of the military, following a mutiny within the army. There were also rumors that Rajoelina and his supporters were supported by the former president Didier Ratsiraka, ousted by Marc Ravalomanana in 2002, but the evidence remains unclear.

The supporters of Andry Rajoelina have been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.