President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar has announced the dissolution of his cabinet following several days of nationwide demonstrations spearheaded by young people angry over persistent electricity blackouts and water shortages.
Large crowds, mostly made up of youths, marched in the capital city Antananarivo and across other regions, pressing the government to act on the worsening crisis.
The frequent outages and water disruptions stem from years of inadequate infrastructure investment, poor management, declining hydroelectric output, and financial shortfalls within the utility sector.
The demonstrations, which observers said were the biggest in the country in recent years, were partly influenced by recent Gen Z-led protests in Kenya and Nepal.
The unrest is the most significant political challenge President Rajoelina has confronted since securing re-election in 2023.
“We acknowledge and apologise if members of the government have not carried out the tasks assigned to them,” Rajoelina stated on Monday.
“I understand the anger, the sadness, and the difficulties caused by power cuts and water supply problems. I heard the call, I felt the suffering, I understood the impact on daily life.”
The president added that he wanted to open dialogue with young citizens and pledged support for businesses that suffered losses during looting incidents.
He further disclosed that he had “terminated the functions of the prime minister and the government” and that nominations for a new premier would be accepted within three days. Current officeholders, however, will serve as caretakers until a new administration is installed.
While the United Nations reported that at least 22 people had died and over 100 sustained injuries during the protests, Madagascar’s foreign ministry dismissed the figures, describing them as “based on rumours or misinformation.”
Madagascar president dissolves cabinet amid youth-led protest over power, water crisis