We don't want power, we want lights': Madagascar awaits post-Rajoelina era

"She never made it to church. But later on Sunday she decided to join a bustling protest march in nearby Independence Square. How can they expect us to stay silent? she asked from the square, holding a yellow jerrycan and small tin-can lamp jiro-kapoaka items that have become symbols of resistance among the youth protesters. We fetch water in the dark, we sleep through power cuts, and they tell us to be patient? For how long?"

"Since September 25, hundreds of protesters led by the Gen Z Madagascar youth movement have been taking to the streets of Antananarivo. What began as anger about the persistent water and power cuts soon led to general discontent and calls for President Andry Rajoelina to step down. For weeks, angry demonstrators blocked roads with burning tyres and rocks, and in response, police fired rubber bullets, stun grenades, and tear gas. At least 22 people have died an"

Protests in Antananarivo began after persistent and severe power and water cuts provoked youth-led mobilization demanding basic services and dignity. Young demonstrators use yellow jerrycans and small tin-can lamps as symbols of resistance while marching in Independence Square. Demonstrations intensified into calls for President Andry Rajoelina to step down, with roads blocked by burning tyres and rocks. Police responses have included rubber bullets, stun grenades, and tear gas, and at least 22 people have died. The president fled and the army took control amid the unrest and mounting public anger.

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