Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina announced the dissolution of his government on Monday, responding to youth-led protests over chronic water and electricity shortages that have resulted in at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, according to the United Nations.
The demonstrations, which began last Thursday in the capital, Antananarivo, and other cities, mark the most significant challenge to Rajoelina’s leadership since his re-election in 2023.
Inspired by recent Gen Z-led movements in Kenya and Nepal, thousands of protesters, angered by widespread poverty and unreliable utility services, took to the streets, wielding placards with slogans like “Justice for Madagascar” and “We want to live, not just survive.”
The protests, which gained traction through social media, saw violent clashes, with security forces using tear gas and, in some cases, live ammunition, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Additional deaths occurred due to looting and violence by groups unaffiliated with the protests.
Madagascar’s foreign ministry disputed the U.N.’s casualty figures, claiming they were based on unverified sources.
Rajoelina, in a televised address, acknowledged the public’s frustration, stating:
I understand the anger, the sadness, and the difficulties caused by power cuts and water supply problems.
He dismissed Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and the cabinet, who will serve on an interim basis until a new government is formed within three days.
The president also invited applications for government positions and promised support for businesses affected by looting.
The protests have led to a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Antananarivo and other cities, with demonstrators burning tires, barricading roads, and damaging infrastructure, including parts of the capital’s new cable car system.
Despite the government’s actions, protesters continued to gather on Monday, waving flags inspired by Nepal’s anti-government demonstrations and singing the national anthem before being dispersed by tear gas.