Madagascar's Youth Protests Intensify: President Rajoelina Refuses to Step Down Amid Ongoing Demonstrations

Youth-Led Protests Continue in Madagascar as President Refuses to Resign ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR - Thousands of young protesters took to the streets of Antananarivo on Tuesday, vowing to continue their fight for the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina despite his dissolution of the government earlier this week. The protests, which began on September 25 after local councillors were arrested for demonstrating against water and electricity outages in the capital, have resulted in at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, according to the United Nations. The unrest has spread to other towns and cities across the country, fueled by social media and inspired by similar protests in Indonesia and Nepal. "We are the last hope for this country," said Tiana Rasoanirina, a 19-year-old university student who has been participating in the protests since their inception. "We will not back down until President Rajoelina resigns and our demands are met." The protesters are demanding a list of reforms to address the country's deepening economic crisis, including the establishment of a new government and the implementation of policies to improve access to basic services such as water and electricity. President Rajoelina has rejected the protesters' demands, instead dissolving the government on Monday in an effort to quell the unrest. However, the move has been seen as insufficient by many, who argue that it does not address the underlying issues driving the protests. "We understand that the dissolution of the government is a necessary step, but it is not enough," said Jean-Luc Raharimanana, a leader of the opposition party. "The president must also commit to implementing meaningful reforms and addressing the economic crisis that has left our country on its knees." Madagascar is one of the world's poorest countries, with an average annual income of just $545 last year, according to the World Bank. The country has been plagued by corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of investment in basic services, leading to widespread poverty and discontent among its citizens. The protests have sparked concerns about the stability of the government and the potential for further violence. However, many observers believe that the protesters' demands are legitimate and that the president's refusal to resign is exacerbating the crisis. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether President Rajoelina will eventually yield to the protesters' demands or if the protests will continue to escalate. One thing is certain, however: the youth of Madagascar have become a powerful force in their country's politics, and they are determined to see through their demands for change. Additional Background The protests began on September 25 after local councillors were arrested for demonstrating against water and electricity outages in Antananarivo. The unrest has spread to other towns and cities across the country, fueled by social media and inspired by similar protests in Indonesia and Nepal. At least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured in the protests, according to the United Nations. Sources Tiana Rasoanirina, 19-year-old university student Jean-Luc Raharimanana, leader of the opposition party World Bank United Nations *Reporting by Theguardian.*