Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved his government following days of mass protests led by young demonstrators demanding solutions to chronic electricity and water shortages.
In a televised address on Monday, Rajoelina acknowledged public grievances and issued an apology for his administration’s shortcomings.
“Maybe we haven’t met the needs you aspired to or even listened to the cries and fears you experienced,” he said, announcing the dismissal of the prime minister and cabinet.
A new government is expected to be appointed within days, with outgoing officials serving in an interim capacity.
The protests—branded the “Gen-Z movement”—erupted last Thursday under the slogan “We want to live, not survive.” Thousands took to the streets of Antananarivo and eight other cities, denouncing worsening shortages and demanding accountability.
The unrest has drawn international concern. The United Nations condemned the security forces’ response, citing the use of “unnecessary and disproportionate force” that left at least 20 people dead and more than 100 injured. Authorities imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the capital last week amid reports of looting and violent clashes.
Although Rajoelina had earlier dismissed his energy minister, demonstrators pressed for wider action, insisting the entire government step down. Renewed protests on Monday prompted the president’s decision to dissolve the cabinet.
Source:Africa Publicity
