Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has given himself a one-year ultimatum to fix the country’s pressing problems, stating that he will step down if significant improvements are not seen.
During a recent town-hall style meeting held at the presidential palace, President Rajoelina engaged with various government supporters. He encouraged frank discussions, stating, “I don’t want flattery. I want to hear the truth. It’s the people who kept telling me that everything was fine who are responsible for our current situation.”
The influential youth protest movement, known as Gen Z Mada, which has been advocating for the president’s resignation, declined an invitation to participate in these discussions. They argue that engaging with a government that has been using force against them is not feasible, especially as they continue to demand basic human rights. The group has announced plans for further protests on Thursday.
“We refuse the president’s invitation to talks. We will not engage in dialogue with a regime that represses, assaults, and humiliates its youth in the streets,” the movement declared on their Facebook page.
President Rajoelina views these meetings as a crucial part of his commitment to “listen more,” emphasizing his belief that the nation’s challenges can only be overcome through sincere dialogue rather than street demonstrations.
He assured attendees that ongoing power projects are set to increase the national grid’s capacity by 265 megawatts, aiming to resolve the recurring power outages. “I swear that if power cuts persist in the capital within a year, I will resign,” the president stated.
The protests initially began on September 25th, fueled by public anger over continuous power and water shortages. They have since evolved into widespread dissatisfaction concerning corruption, high unemployment rates, and the rising cost of living.
In response to the growing unrest, President Rajoelina dissolved his government last week and appointed an army general as prime minister on Monday. However, the protest movement rejected this appointment, reaffirming their determination to continue their struggle.
Rajoelina first came to power in 2009, leading protests that resulted in military intervention and the ousting of the then-President Marc Ravalomanana.
Despite the youth movement’s persistent calls for his resignation, the intensity of street protests seems to have diminished. While life in most parts of the capital, Antananarivo, continues normally, certain neighborhoods with a significant police presence have experienced road blockades and heightened surveillance.
According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have lost their lives in clashes with security forces, with many more injured. Official figures, however, differ from these reports.
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