Madagascar president Andry Rajoelina has dissolved his government after three days of youth-led protests over persistent water and electricity shortages. Hundreds of mostly young protesters faced off against security forces in Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, after an anti-government demonstration erupted into clashes and looting. According to the United Nations, the unrest has since left at least 22 people dead and more than 100 injured. In a televised address, Rajoelina acknowledged public anger over the crisis and blamed his ministers for failing to deliver on their mandates. “We acknowledge and apologise if members of the government have not carried out the tasks assigned to them,” he said on state broadcaster Televiziona Malagasy (TVM). He announced the termination of the prime minister and cabinet, adding that applications for a new premier would be received within three days, while outgoing ministers would serve in an interim capacity.
How did Kenya inspire Madagascar protests? The demonstrations, led mainly by young people identifying as “Gen Z,” erupted in the capital Antananarivo before spreading to at least eight other cities. Protesters marched with placards, chanting “We want to live, not survive,” as anger boiled over water shortages, frequent blackouts, and what they described as years of neglect. Some demonstrators adopted flags and organisational tactics inspired by similar Gen Z-led movements in Kenya and Nepal. In Nepal, youth protests forced the prime minister to resign earlier this month, while in Kenya, mass online mobilisation last year pressured the government to withdraw controversial tax legislation. Security forces responded with teargas, rubber bullets, and, in some instances, live ammunition. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned what it described as unnecessary and disproportionate force by the police and military.
UN rights chief Volker Türk said he was shocked by the crackdown and urged authorities to release all those arbitrarily detained. The UN reported that the deaths included demonstrators, bystanders, and victims of looting and gang violence that broke out during the unrest. Madagascar’s foreign ministry, however, rejected the UN figures, arguing they were based on rumours or misinformation. What are Madagascar Gen Z demands? The violence prompted authorities to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Antananarivo as reports also surfaced of homes belonging to at least two legislators being damaged. Some protesters accused government-linked groups of staging attacks to discredit the movement. The unrest is the most serious challenge Rajoelina has faced since securing a controversial third term in December 2023.
Rajoelina struck a conciliatory tone in his address, stating that he understood the frustration caused by power cuts and water shortages. “I understand the anger, the sadness, and the difficulties caused by power cuts and water supply problems. I heard the call, I felt the suffering, I understood the impact on daily life,” he said. Protesters hold a Madagascar flag while looking at police officers as they demonstrate. Photo: Rijasolo. Source: Getty Images The president promised new measures to support businesses affected by the protests and to open dialogue with the country’s youth. Despite the promise of a government reshuffle, many young protesters continue to demand Rajoelina’s resignation, arguing that his administration has failed.
By Didacus Malowa
