Security forces deployed tear gas to disperse hundreds of young protesters in Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, as demonstrations continued despite President Andry Rajoelina’s recent announcement to partially address grievances by dissolving the government. The president, speaking on state television, expressed his desire to foster dialogue with the youth, who are demanding improved access to water and an end to power outages, and promised support for businesses impacted by looting. However, some protest organizers expressed disappointment with his speech and are seeking an apology from Rajoelina, the ousted prime minister, and the city administrator. The protests, inspired by movements in other countries, have emerged as a significant challenge to Rajoelina since his re-election in December 2023. Reports from the United Nations indicate that at least 22 individuals have died and over 100 have been injured since the protests began, although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disputed these figures, asserting they are based on unreliable sources. Demonstrations have also occurred in other regions, including Fenoarivo and Mahajanga, marking one of the largest displays of dissent the country has seen in recent years.
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