The government of Madagascar has been dissolved by President Andry Rajoelina following widespread youth-led demonstrations against persistent power and water shortages. The United Nations has reported at least 22 fatalities and more than 100 injuries during the unrest.
For three consecutive days, the capital city of Antananarivo has witnessed the largest protests in recent years, with thousands of demonstrators, many dressed in black, demanding the president’s resignation. The movement has drawn inspiration from recent youth-led protests in other nations.
In a national address, President Rajoelina acknowledged public frustration with the utility crises. “I recognize the anger and hardship caused by power interruptions and water supply failures,” he stated. “The suffering has been heard, and the impact on daily life understood.”
The president announced his intention to accept applications for a new prime minister within the next 72 hours, after which a new government will be established. He pledged to create opportunities for dialogue with young citizens and implement support measures for businesses affected by looting during the protests.
Security forces have employed teargas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, with the UN human rights office attributing some casualties to what it described as a “violent response” by authorities. Madagascar’s foreign ministry has disputed the UN’s casualty figures, claiming they lack verification from proper national sources.
The current demonstrations have drawn tactical inspiration from recent youth movements abroad, adopting organizational methods and symbolic elements seen in other countries. This represents the most significant political challenge President Rajoelina has confronted since his re-election in 2023.
Madagascar, one of the world’s most economically challenged nations, has experienced repeated political upheavals throughout its history since gaining independence in 1960.
