Madagascar's President Disbands Government After Deadly Protests

UNSPLASH//Pawel Janiak ILLUSTRATION

JAKARTA - Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina announced the disbandment of the government following deadly protests that killed 22 people and led by young people who rocked the island nation in the Indian Ocean since Thursday (25/9).

"We acknowledge and apologize if government members do not carry out the tasks given to them; I understand the anger, sadness, and difficulties caused by power outages and water supply problems," Rajoelina said in a televised address by state television station Televiziona Malagasy (TVM) from the capital Antanandarivo reported by ANTARA from Anadolu, Tuesday, September 30.

The demonstration is the largest that has occurred in Madagascar over the years and is the most serious challenge Rajoelina has faced since being re-elected in 2023.

He said he wanted to create space for dialogue with young people who were angry with water shortages and power outages.

"I heard the call, I felt the suffering; I understand the impact it has on everyday life," he said.

In addition, Rajoeline promised to provide support to businesses affected by looting when protests occurred.

The United Nations said Monday that at least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured in demonstrations inspired by protests called "Gen-Z" in Kenya and Nepal.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said the victims included protesters and civilians killed by members of the security forces, or in further widespread violence and looting by individuals and gangs unrelated to the protesters.

However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the number of victims mentioned by the United Nations, saying that the data did not come from competent national authorities and was based on "rumors and misinformation".

Protesters gathered at a university on Monday, where they waved banners and tried to march towards the city center but were dispersed by police who fired tear gas.