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At least 1,000 demonstrators took to the streets of Madagascar’s capital on Thursday, prompting police to fire tear gas in an attempt to disperse the latest demonstration against President Andry Rajoelina.
The youth-led movement, which began two weeks ago, has rejected the president’s recent efforts to ease tensions, including his appointment of a new prime minister and calls for dialogue.
AFP reporters said the demonstrators, some wearing gas and diving masks, gathered near Lake Anosy and marched towards the Ambohijatovo Gardens in the city centre, also known as Democracy Square. Security forces responded with tear gas and arrested several participants.
The protests erupted on September 25, driven by frustration over frequent power and water shortages in Madagascar, one of the world’s poorest nations, which has a long history of popular uprisings since gaining independence in 1960.
“We’re still struggling,” said 35-year-old marcher Heritiana Rafanomezantsoa. “The problem is the system. Since we gained independence from France, our lives have not improved.”
Rajoelina, 51, attempted a conciliatory approach earlier this month, dismissing his entire government and appointing a military officer as prime minister on October 6.
He filled key cabinet positions with figures from the armed forces, public security, and gendarmerie, stating that the country “no longer needs disturbances.”
The president disputed a UN report issued on September 29, which stated that at least 22 people had been killed in the early days of the protests.
“There have been 12 confirmed deaths and all of these individuals were looters and vandals,” he told French television channel Reunion La Première.
The UN rights office said its toll included protesters, bystanders, and victims of violence from criminal gangs in the aftermath of demonstrations.
Lawyers confirmed on Wednesday that 28 demonstrators have been referred to the prosecutor’s office for formal charges.
The movement has issued Rajoelina with a list of demands, including a public apology for violence against demonstrators, but has not reiterated calls for the president to resign.
