But the alliance they welcomed brought unforeseen consequences. Malagasy protesters are beginning to confront the reality that the military—once an ally to their cause—now holds the reins of power.

After weeks of sustained youth-led demonstrations against President Andry Rajoelina, Madagascar’s elite Capsat military unit defected from the government last month and joined the protesters. Shortly after, Capsat’s commander, Col. Michael Randrianirina, announced that the military had removed Rajoelina from power. Protesters were initially enthusiastic, convinced that their efforts had directly forced change.

After weeks of sustained youth-led demonstrations against President Andry Rajoelina, Madagascar’s elite Capsat military unit defected from the government last month and joined the protesters. Shortly after, Capsat’s commander, Col. Michael Randrianirina, announced that the military had removed Rajoelina from power. Protesters were initially enthusiastic, convinced that their efforts had directly forced change.

But the alliance they welcomed brought unforeseen consequences. Malagasy protesters are beginning to confront the reality that the military—once an ally to their cause—now holds the reins of power.

What’s more, decisions such as the appointment of Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo—a businessman with ties to the Rajoelina government—as prime minister, made without