Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has announced the dissolution of his government following a wave of youth-led protests sparked by persistent power outages and water shortages.
For several days, thousands of young people gathered in Antananarivo, the capital, and across other cities, demanding urgent solutions to the worsening situation. The shortages stem from long-standing infrastructure problems, weak hydroelectric output, and financial mismanagement.
The demonstrations the largest Madagascar has witnessed in years drew inspiration from recent youth uprisings in Kenya and Nepal. They mark the most significant political test for Rajoelina since his re-election in 2023.
“We apologise if government officials have failed to fulfill their responsibilities,” Rajoelina said on Monday. “I share the pain and frustration caused by these disruptions to water and electricity. I have heard the people’s grievances.”
The president promised to engage in dialogue with young citizens and pledged support for businesses hit by looting during the unrest. He confirmed that he had dismissed the prime minister and cabinet, with applications for a new premier to be received within three days. Current ministers will remain in an interim capacity until a new government is sworn in.
According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have died and more than 100 have been injured during the protests.
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