25-10 - Flipbook - Page 35
October 2025
According to the UN, the dead "include protesters and bystanders killed by members of the
security forces, but also others killed in subsequent widespread violence and looting by individuals and gangs not associated with the protesters".
Last week, Madagascar's president announced that he had sacked the energy minister for
failing to do his job properly, but protesters demanded that the president and the rest of his
government step down too.
Thousands took to the streets once again on Monday.
"I understand the anger, the sadness, and the difficulties caused by power cuts and water
supply problems," Rajoelina said during his address on state broadcaster Televiziona Malagasy.
He said he had "terminated the functions of the prime minister and the government" and
applications for a new premier would be received over the next three days before a new
government is formed.
However, those currently in office would act as interim ministers pending the formation of a
new government, he noted.
Rajoelina added that he wanted to hold talks with young people.
A banner at one of last week's demonstrations in Antananarivo read: "We don't want trouble, we just want our rights".
But some reports last week suggested protesters had damaged - possibly by setting fire to the homes of at least two legislators. The "Gen Z" movement alleges, however, that paid
goons had looted various buildings in order to undermine their cause.
Madagascar has been rocked by multiple uprisings since it gained independence in 1960,
including mass protests in 2009 that forced former president Marc Ravalomanana to step
down and saw Rajoelina come to power.
The protests mark the most significant challenge the president has faced since his third reelection in 2023.
It’s time to leave the city . . . While you can
