Youth-Led Protests Force Madagascar President to Suspend Government Amid Deadly Unrest

Breaking News: Madagascar's President Dissolves Government Amid Youth-Led Protests Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved the government following three days of youth-led protests over water and power cuts, which have left at least 22 people dead and over 100 injured. The demonstrations, inspired by similar movements in Kenya and Nepal, are the largest the Indian Ocean island has seen in years. Timeline of Events Last week: Authorities declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew to quell protests. Yesterday: Police fired teargas to disperse crowds, leading to clashes with protesters. Today: President Rajoelina announced the dissolution of the government on state broadcaster Televiziona Malagasy. Immediate Impact and Response The move is seen as an attempt by Rajoelina to address the growing discontent among Madagascar's youth. The protests have brought the country's infrastructure crisis into sharp focus, with power cuts and water shortages affecting millions of people. International organizations, including the UN, have condemned the violence and called for calm. Background Context The protests are part of a global wave of demonstrations by young people demanding action on climate change, economic inequality, and social justice. Madagascar's government has faced criticism for its handling of the crisis, with many accusing it of being out of touch with the needs of its citizens. What Happens Next As the situation remains volatile, the international community is watching closely to see how Rajoelina's new administration will address the underlying issues driving the protests. The UN has urged calm and called for a thorough investigation into the violence. In the meantime, Madagascar's people are bracing themselves for further disruptions as the country navigates its most serious crisis in years. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Theguardian reporting.*