Youth-led protesters in Madagascar on Wednesday dismissed President Andry Rajoelina’s invitation to participate in a “national dialogue,” accusing his government of repression after weeks of mass demonstrations across the island nation.
Inspired by similar “Gen Z” protest movements in Kenya and Nepal, the demonstrations — which began on September 25 — have become the biggest challenge to Rajoelina’s administration since his 2023 re-election. Protesters are voicing anger over deep poverty, corruption, and worsening living conditions.
In a move aimed at calming tensions, Rajoelina dismissed his cabinet last week, appointed a new prime minister, and announced a national dialogue scheduled to begin Wednesday afternoon. The talks were to include spiritual leaders, students, and youth representatives.
However, the protesters, who describe themselves as the “Gen Z movement,” rejected the offer, saying they would not negotiate with a government that continues to suppress dissent.
“We reject this mockery of dialogue,” the group said in a statement on its verified Facebook page. “We refuse the president’s invitation to talks. We will not engage in dialogue with a regime that represses, assaults, and humiliates its youth in the streets.”
University students were expected to march again on Wednesday after the protesters issued a 48-hour ultimatum on Monday night, demanding that Rajoelina meet their conditions or face a nationwide strike.
What began as anger over water and electricity shortages has evolved into broader demands, including the president’s resignation, a public apology, and the dissolution of the Senate and the election commission.
According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured during the unrest — figures the government disputes without providing its own.
Late Tuesday, Rajoelina named new ministers for defence and public security, instructing them to “restore public order” and to “not tolerate the incitement of unrest.”
The protests come at a precarious moment for Madagascar’s export-driven economy. While the country is the world’s leading vanilla producer, exports of nickel, cobalt, textiles, and shrimp are also crucial sources of income and employment.
The World Bank reports that Madagascar’s per capita GDP has fallen by 45% between 1960 and 2020, underscoring the economic hardships fuelling the demonstrations.
Source:Africa Publicity
