Madagascar's president has announced the dissolution of his government, following days of youth-led protests over longstanding water and power cuts.
We acknowledge and apologise if members of the government have not carried out the tasks assigned to them, Andry Rajoelina said in a televised address.
Thousands of predominantly Gen Z demonstrators have taken to the streets across Madagascar, rallying under the slogan We want to live, not survive since Thursday.
The UN's human rights chief has condemned the use of unnecessary force by security forces to quell the unrest, which has resulted in at least 22 deaths and around 100 injuries.
While peaceful protests began in the capital Antananarivo, they have ignited across eight cities nationwide, prompting a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the capital after violence erupted.
After the energy minister was dismissed over his inadequate management, protesters called for Rajoelina and his government to also resign.
Rajoelina has expressed understanding of the public's frustrations regarding the ongoing power and water issues and stated he would accept applications for a new prime minister within the next three days.
His dialogue with youth leaders aims to address their grievances directly in the wake of this crisis.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk expressed shock at the violent response from security forces, emphasizing the need to refrain from excessive measures and calling for the release of detained protesters.
The Madagascar foreign ministry has disputed UN reports on casualties, claiming they are based on misinformation. Meanwhile, reports of vandalism targeting legislators add complexity to the situation as protests continue.
These recent protests mark the most significant challenge to Rajoelina's leadership since his re-election in 2023.
