Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has announced plans to hold a “national dialogue” with various groups on Wednesday, following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by youth protesters demanding his resignation.
The protesters, who took to the streets over water and electricity shortages, have expanded their demands to include Rajoelina’s resignation, apology to the nation, and dissolution of the senate and election commission.
Despite appointing a new prime minister, army General Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo, the protests have continued, with at least 22 people reported dead and 100 injured.
Rajoelina has called for unity and promised to listen to people’s concerns, but the protesters remain skeptical, describing the appointment of the new prime minister as a “cosmetic manoeuvre”.
