Following days of deadly Gen Z-led protests over unreliable utilities, Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina dismissed Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and the entire government. While the President did not indicate he would step down, he announced a call for applications for government positions with a three-day timeframe to review proposals for a new Prime Minister. The UN reported 22 deaths due to the protests and the subsequent violent response from security forces, although Madagascar authorities dispute the toll. Protests, which began peacefully but were met with force, have involved thousands of people in the streets, resulting in roadblocks, fires, and attacks on political figures.
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Following youth-led protests sparked by water and power shortages that have resulted in at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the government. The demonstrations, inspired by similar movements in Kenya and Nepal, represent the largest challenge Rajoelina has faced since his 2023 re-election. Rajoelina has apologized for the government’s shortcomings and announced a call for applications for a new premier, while also promising measures to address business disruptions and create space for dialogue with the youth. The UN has cited a “violent response” by security forces as contributing to the fatalities, while the government disputes the UN’s casualty figures.
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Protests erupted in Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, due to chronic water and electricity shortages, resulting in at least five deaths. Demonstrators built barricades and ransacked shops despite a curfew imposed by authorities. The unrest, initially sparked by the shortages, escalated into significant challenges for President Andry Rajoelina, with clashes also occurring in other cities. Online mobilization fueled the protests, with social media posts sharing addresses and prompting accusations of government failure and attempts at a coup. The crisis highlights the country’s widespread poverty, with only a third of the population having access to electricity, compounded by poor governance of the state-owned utility company.
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John Q. Hosedrinker