Authorities in Madagascar have imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the capital, Antananarivo, following violent protests sparked by widespread power outages and water shortages. The unrest highlights growing frustration with living conditions in the island nation, where many citizens blame the government for failing to deliver basic services.
The curfew, announced late Thursday by General Angelo Ravelonarivo, runs daily from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. until public order is restored. Ravelonarivo, who leads a joint security task force of police and military officers, said the measure was necessary to safeguard residents and their property.
Earlier in the day, thousands of mostly young demonstrators defied a police ban and marched through the city streets, carrying placards and chanting, “We need water, we need electricity.” Security forces fired tear gas to disperse the crowds, but protests later spread into several neighborhoods.
Tensions escalated as some protesters turned violent. A large shopping mall was looted and set ablaze, while the homes of two lawmakers were also vandalized. Authorities accused opportunistic individuals of exploiting the demonstrations to commit acts of destruction.
The government of President Andry Rajoelina, re-elected in 2023, has faced mounting criticism for failing to improve infrastructure and public services in one of the world’s poorest countries. For many citizens, the frequent blackouts and unreliable water supply have become a daily burden, fueling anger at the administration.
On Wednesday, before the protests, national police chief Jean Herbert Andriantahiana Rakotomalala had warned that security forces would take “firm preventive measures” against lawbreakers. The extent of arrests or injuries from Thursday’s demonstrations remains unclear, as security officials have not provided updates.
Madagascar’s recurring shortages of electricity and water are tied to aging infrastructure, underinvestment, and the country’s economic struggles. With frustration now spilling onto the streets, the government faces increasing pressure to deliver urgent solutions while attempting to restore calm in the capital.
