Madagascar Youth Protests Escalate, Government Fired Amidst UN Casualty Toll
Youth-led protests in Madagascar's capital, Antananarivo, have escalated, with students criticising President Andry Rajoelina's government for its perceived hypocrisy in handling demonstrations. The government, however, rejects the UN's casualty toll as unverified, and organisers have called for a rally on Tuesday at 11:00 am (0800 GMT).
Protesters are angered by repeated water and power cuts, with some drawing inspiration from 'Gen Z' protests in Indonesia and Nepal. A student protester publicly criticised the government for allowing past protests led by Rajoelina but attempting to silence current youth protests.
Protests in the capital were followed by widespread looting, and previous demonstrations have been met with a heavy police response. According to the UN, at least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured. In response to the protests, Rajoelina fired his entire government.
Madagascar, despite being the world's leading producer of vanilla, ranks among the poorest countries. With youth-led protests continuing, the government faces pressure to address the root causes of the unrest, such as repeated power and water cuts. The upcoming rally on Tuesday is expected to attract more protesters, demanding solutions to the country's pressing issues.
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