Protests began on September 25 in Madagascar, forcing the president to dismiss the entire cabinet amid escalating unrest.
Protests in Madagascar
Demonstrations started on Thursday, September 25, chiefly in Antananarivo and other towns. They were triggered by frequent water and power outages. Peaceful protests were organized by Generation Z youth, amplified by social media. Police intervened with tear gas and live ammunition. In the following days, shoplifting and arson also occurred. Reuters reported the protests were inspired by similar actions in Kenya and Nepal and were the largest the island has seen in years.
We Admit and Apologize
On Friday, President Andry Rajoelina fired the energy minister, citing neglect of duties. He also suggested the opposition might attempt a coup. On Monday, he dismissed the entire cabinet. In a speech to citizens, Rajoelina said, “We admit and apologize if government members failed to carry out their duties. I understand the anger, sadness, and difficulties caused by power outages and water shortages. I heard the cries, felt the suffering, and understood the impact on daily life.”
22 Fatalities
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk stated on Monday that at least 22 people had died since the protests began and more than 200 were injured. He added that victims included protesters, civilians killed by security forces, and others who died in subsequent widespread violence and looting carried out by unrelated gangs.
Youth Remain Unwavering
On Tuesday, protesters returned to the streets of Antananarivo and other cities. Security forces used tear gas in the capital. Some organizers expressed disappointment with the president’s speech and demanded his apology, the dismissal of the then‑prime minister, and the removal of Antananarivo’s administrator, according to Reuters.
Polish Foreign Ministry Warns Against Madagascar Travel
On Monday, the Polish embassy in Nairobi urged travelers to Madagascar to exercise heightened caution, obey local authorities, monitor local media for updates, and avoid demonstrations and crowds. It advised against non‑essential travel and recommended registering with the Odyssey portal. The embassy also highlighted Madagascar’s status as one of the world’s poorest and most under‑developed countries, citing high poverty, underinvested health and education sectors, an inadequately regulated economy, untapped natural resources, a weak judicial system, and high corruption.
