Security forces face protesters in Antsiranana as thousands rally on October 1, demanding President Rajoelina’s resignation amid nationwide unrest. FITA/AFP via Getty Images
The rallies began last week in Antananarivo over widespread water shortages and power blackouts but have now spread nationwide, according to reports by Radio Télévision Siteny.
The demonstrations were influenced by youth-led protests in Kenya and Nepal, which analysts say have galvanized movements across Africa and Asia.
Madagascar protests driven by shortages and political anger
President Rajoelina dissolved his government on Monday, but the move failed to calm anger over the crisis.
Protest organizers issued statements on social media calling for his resignation and the dissolution of key national institutions including the election commission and the top court.
The United Nations reported at least 22 protesters killed and more than 100 injured since the unrest began.
The government disputed those figures and has not provided official casualty numbers.
Protesters chant Rajoelina out across Madagascar
Footage showed protesters chanting “Rajoelina Out” while marching through the streets of Antananarivo and other towns including Toliara, 925 km south of the capital.
They carried national flags and banners while escorted by police vehicles and rickshaws.
A government spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment.
However, presidential spokesperson Lova Ranoromaro said on Facebook that homes were looted and properties destroyed during the unrest.
“We do not want a coup d’etat, because a coup d’etat destroys a nation, because a coup d’etat destroys the future of our children,” Ranoromaro wrote.
Opposition rejects unity with Rajoelina
Opposition leader Rivo Rakotovao said the alliance Firaisankina would not join any new government as long as Rajoelina remained in power.
“We fully support this action to rescue the Malagasy people and rebuild the nation, led by the Malagasy people and driven by the youth,” Rakotovao told reporters.
Rajoelina, who first took power in a 2009 coup, was re-elected for a third term in December 2023 despite claims of irregularities.
Analysts say his political survival has long depended on maintaining control of state institutions, but the scale of the protests marks his biggest challenge in years.
Pope Leo appeals for peace in Madagascar protests
Pope Leo addressed the crisis during his weekly message at the Vatican, expressing sorrow at the violence in the predominantly Christian nation.
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“Let us pray to the Lord that every form of violence may always be avoided and that the constant pursuit of social harmony may be fostered through the promotion of justice and the common good,” the Pope said.
International rights groups have also urged restraint from security forces and dialogue with civil society leaders, according to statements published on Human Rights Watch.
