Madagascar President Dissolves Government Following Youth Protests

On September 29, 2025, Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina announced the dissolution of the government, dismissing Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and appointing interim officials to stabilize the country. The move followed large-scale youth-led protests in the capital, Antananarivo, where demonstrators expressed dissatisfaction with ongoing water and electricity shortages, inadequate public services, and rising living costs.

Reports indicate the protests, initially organized by youth groups, quickly spread across multiple districts. The demonstrations resulted in at least 22 deaths, over 100 injuries, and damage to public facilities. Protesters demanded improvements in infrastructure, more efficient public services, and accountability from officials.

President Rajoelina stated that dissolving the government aims to establish a more efficient administration and promised infrastructure reforms to address long-standing issues in water and electricity supply, roads, transportation, and other public services. He also called for calm and urged citizens to avoid further violent clashes. Observers noted that if the government fails to respond quickly to citizens’ demands, social instability could persist, further affecting the country’s economy and international image.