Madagascar's president has said he will dissolve his government, following days of youth-led protests over longstanding water and power cuts. We acknowledge and apologise if members of the government have not carried out the tasks assigned to them, Andry Rajoelina said in a televised national address on Monday.
Thousands of predominantly Gen Z demonstrators have taken to the streets in cities across Madagascar since Thursday, under the rallying cry of We want to live, not survive. The UN's human rights chief condemned the unnecessary force used by security forces to quell the unrest, resulting in at least 22 fatalities and over 100 injuries.
Peaceful protests commenced in the capital Antananarivo but have expanded to eight cities. Following a day of violence, a curfew was enacted in Antananarivo. President Rajoelina previously dismissed the energy minister amid rising frustrations, but protestors demanded his resignation along with the rest of the government.
In his address, Rajoelina acknowledged the challenges faced due to ongoing utility shortages and stated he would accept applications for a new premier. He also expressed the intent to engage in discussions with the youth about their grievances.
Despite the president's acknowledgment of the public's anger, protests intensified, leading to a violent crackdown from security forces. The UN has called for restraint, highlighting the need to protect citizens’ rights. Rajoelina’s latest decision marks a pivotal moment in Madagascar’s political landscape and a response to the significant unrest that has emerged among its youth population.
Thousands of predominantly Gen Z demonstrators have taken to the streets in cities across Madagascar since Thursday, under the rallying cry of We want to live, not survive. The UN's human rights chief condemned the unnecessary force used by security forces to quell the unrest, resulting in at least 22 fatalities and over 100 injuries.
Peaceful protests commenced in the capital Antananarivo but have expanded to eight cities. Following a day of violence, a curfew was enacted in Antananarivo. President Rajoelina previously dismissed the energy minister amid rising frustrations, but protestors demanded his resignation along with the rest of the government.
In his address, Rajoelina acknowledged the challenges faced due to ongoing utility shortages and stated he would accept applications for a new premier. He also expressed the intent to engage in discussions with the youth about their grievances.
Despite the president's acknowledgment of the public's anger, protests intensified, leading to a violent crackdown from security forces. The UN has called for restraint, highlighting the need to protect citizens’ rights. Rajoelina’s latest decision marks a pivotal moment in Madagascar’s political landscape and a response to the significant unrest that has emerged among its youth population.
