Madagascar Rocked by Deadly Youth Protests, Government Dissolved
Madagascar's youth-led protests against utility cuts turned deadly, causing at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, prompting President Rajoelina to dissolve the government.
Madagascar’s president fires the government following days of deadly unrest
New York Daily News
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Overview
- Youth-led protests erupted across Madagascar, including the capital Antananarivo, initially sparked by grievances over electricity and water cuts.
- The demonstrations escalated into deadly unrest, with at least 22 people killed and over 100 injured in clashes, as reported by the United Nations.
- Security forces responded violently to the protests, contributing to some deaths, while other casualties resulted from violence and looting by unrelated gangs.
- In response to the escalating crisis, President Andry Rajoelina fired the prime minister and dissolved the government, also imposing a nighttime curfew.
- Thousands of protesters continue to demand President Rajoelina's resignation and new elections, returning to the streets after the government's dissolution.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story by emphasizing the severity of the crisis and the government's heavy-handed response to legitimate public grievances. They highlight the "deadly unrest" and "chronic" failures, using UN reports to condemn security forces' "violent response" and "unnecessary force," while giving less space to the government's detailed perspective on the situation.
"Violence surrounding youth-led anti-government protests in the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar over the past several days has killed at least 22 people."
ABC News"Protesters have been angered by widespread poverty and the failure of authorities to provide reliable supplies of water and electricity."
Associated PressArticles (5)
FAQ
The protests were primarily sparked by chronic electricity and water cuts affecting daily life, with youth also denouncing difficult living conditions and demanding equitable study opportunities.
President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the government and fired the prime minister, imposed nighttime curfews in major cities, and planned a review and reform of governance.
At least 22 people were killed and over 100 injured in clashes involving security forces and unrelated gangs, according to the United Nations human rights office.
Security forces responded with violent measures including the use of tear gas and firearms, which contributed to some of the deaths and injuries during the protests.
Protesters continue to demand the resignation of President Rajoelina and call for new elections, maintaining pressure through ongoing demonstrations.
History
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