Madagascar, 30 September 2025 – Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved government following days of mass protests by youths across the country.
The demonstrations, which began last Thursday, have resulted in heavy casualties. The United Nations reported that at least 22 people had been killed and more than 100 injured during the protests, which have been likened to the recent “Gen-Z” uprisings in Kenya and Nepal.
In a speech broadcast on television, Monday, President Rajoelina admitted that his administration had failed to address the grievances of the population, particularly widespread power cuts and water shortages.
“I acknowledge and apologize if members of the government did not fulfill their duties. I understand the anger, sadness, and difficulties caused by power outages and water shortages,” Rajoelina said.
The president said he wanted to open dialogue with the protesting youth and pledged government support for businesses affected by the unrest and looting.
The UN Human Rights Office confirmed that the dead included both protesters and other civilians who were shot by security forces or killed in violence and looting carried out by gangs.
However, Madagascar’s Foreign Ministry has sine rejected the UN figures, describing them as “unofficial information based on rumors and misinformation.”
On Monday, hundreds of protesters gathered at a university in the capital, Antananarivo, but police dispersed them using tear gas.
These events are considered the largest protests Madagascar has seen in many years and represent the most serious challenge President Rajoelina has faced since his re-election in 2023.