Antananarivo – Madagascar’s capital became a stage for two conflicting visions of the nation’s future on Saturday, as rival rallies filled the streets after nearly a week of deadly youth-led protests sparked by chronic water and power shortages.
What began as frustration over basic services has spiralled into a broader social and political crisis and one of the most serious challenges yet for President Andry Rajoelina.
In the heart of the city, thousands of pro-government supporters gathered beneath banners declaring loyalty to Rajoelina, chanting that they wanted jobs, not chaos. Many families, dressed in the national colours, said they feared instability more than hardship.
“We have water, we have electricity, it works very well. But let my children go to school,” said one father of three, clutching his young daughter’s hand. His words reflected a sentiment among many who believe the country’s fragile stability must not be risked for political gain.
Across town, the mood was starkly different. Members of Madagascar’s Gen Z movement — young activists frustrated by unemployment, inflation, and broken promises — tried once again to gather in Democracy Square. They were met by rows of riot police, shields raised, blocking every entrance.
For days, these protesters have attempted to occupy the square, seen as a symbolic space for dissent. Each time, they’ve been pushed back with tear gas and, according to witnesses, live ammunition. The United Nations says at least 22 people have been killed and hundreds injured since the protests began, a figure the government disputes.
Student activist Malick Sulleyman, one of the movement’s visible voices, said the double standard is glaring. “As you can see here, there are no soldiers, no police, nothing at all,” he said, standing near a pro-government gathering. “That is not democracy. When it’s Rajoelina’s people, there’s no problem. But when it’s us, we get bullets.”
Continue reading with Eandel
Subscribe to unlock the complete story and receive your subscriber benefits.
