Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has appointed army General Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as prime minister,in a high-stakes move to quell mounting nationwide protests.
The unrest,now in its third week,was initially sparked by widespread water and electricity shortages but has since grown into a broader revolt against Rajoelina’s rule. Announcing the appointment on Monday (6 Oct),Rajoelina said Zafisambo — formerly director of the military cabinet — was chosen because he was deemed “capable of restoring order and the people’s trust”.
His predecessor,civilian Prime Minister Christian Ntsay,and the entire cabinet were dismissed last week as protests intensified. The protest movement,dubbed Gen Z Mada,led largely by youth mobilized on social media,has rejected the appointment and demanded Rajoelina’s resignation within 48 hours. “As long as Rajoelina remains in power,we will continue the struggle,” the group stated.
Clashes between demonstrators and security forces have turned deadly. The United Nations reports at least 22 fatalities and over 100 injuries,figures the government disputes. Protesters have been met with tear gas,curfews,and arrests in Antananarivo,Toliara,and Diego Suarez.
Critics see Zafisambo’s appointment as a militarization of governance and a bid to consolidate army support amid fears of a potential coup. Former President Marc Ravalomanana said the move “won’t make a difference” because the appointed Prime Minister was basically part of the system. With Madagascar facing deep economic hardship — 75% of its population lives in poverty — the crisis marks Rajoelina’s greatest political challenge since returning to power in 2018.
United News - unews.co.za