Recent weeks have seen significant public demonstrations across Madagascar, particularly in the capital, Antananarivo, and other urban centers, stemming from persistent disruptions in water and electricity services. These protests, which began on September 25, 2025, have escalated into violent confrontations, resulting in a tragic loss of life.
The demonstrations are largely spearheaded by the youth, who are voicing their deep-seated frustration with the government's handling of essential resources and perceived mismanagement. A striking visual element of these protests is the adoption of the pirate flag from the popular manga series "One Piece," a symbol that has also been seen in similar youth-led movements in Asia, signifying a shared spirit of defiance and a demand for change.
In response to the escalating unrest, authorities implemented nightly curfews in several key cities, including Antananarivo. President Andry Rajoelina's government took a significant step by dissolving the entire cabinet on September 29, 2025, in an effort to address the grievances. However, these measures have not yet quelled the widespread discontent, with protests continuing across the nation. The Pope Leo XIV has expressed his profound sorrow over the unfolding events in Madagascar, calling for prayers to avert further violence and emphasizing the critical importance of social justice and the common good. The Catholic Church, a significant institution in Madagascar where over 80% of the population is Christian, plays a vital role in the nation's social fabric.
These protests highlight a broader narrative of economic hardship in Madagascar, a nation grappling with poverty, with approximately 75% of its estimated 30 million population living below the poverty line in 2022. The recurring power and water cuts, sometimes lasting up to 12 hours, have become a focal point for public anger against what many perceive as ingrained misgovernance. The movement, dubbed 'Leo Délestage' or 'Fed up with load shedding,' has gained momentum through social media platforms like Facebook, demonstrating the power of digital mobilization in contemporary activism.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has expressed concern regarding the use of excessive force by security forces during the demonstrations, noting instances of tear gas, beatings, arrests, and the use of live ammunition. The UN noted that some deaths were caused by the actions of security forces, while others resulted from violence and looting by unidentified groups. The protests have also been marked by incidents of looting and vandalism in commercial areas and public facilities. While the government has taken steps such as dissolving the cabinet and imposing curfews, the underlying issues of economic disparity and resource management remain central to the ongoing situation. The youth's call for systemic change and accountability, including the resignation of President Rajoelina and new elections, continues to resonate, reflecting a generation seeking a more equitable future.