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(Bloomberg) — Madagascar’s President Andres Rajoelina named a military general as the country’s new prime minister as anti-government protests enter a third week.
Ruphine Fortunate Dembisoa Zafisambo replaces Christian Ntse, who was sacked a week ago.
Under pressure from youth-led protesters, Rajoelina dismissed his government on 29 September in a bid to quell the movement, while so-called General Z Mada ignored demands from protesters to step down.
“Public order must be restored as soon as possible,” Rajoelina said from the State Palace. “We are about to bring about a real change in the management of public affairs through the establishment of a new government. The goal is shared: to respond to the people’s expectations, but above all, to solve the most serious problems.”
Protests over power and water shortages have turned increasingly violent and police fired tear gas on Monday as protesters tried to cross barricades set up at key access points into the capital, Antananarivo.
According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and several injured in clashes with security forces. The protests mirror Gen Z demonstrations that have emerged in Morocco, where at least three people have died, as well as in Kenya, Togo, Nepal and Indonesia.
“The fight will continue until our goal is achieved – the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina and his entourage,” municipal councilor Clemens Rahrinrina told reporters in Antananarivo after some opposition lawmakers joined the protest.
“People no longer want corrupt leaders who impoverish and destroy the country,” he said.
Rajoelina has repeatedly said that he will not step down and is committed to maintaining institutional stability and continuing reforms.
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