Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has named army general Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the new prime minister in an effort to quell growing youth-led protests. Rajoelina said the country needed leadership capable of restoring order and public trust. However, the move follows fears of a coup and signals rising military influence in government.
Protesters under the Gen Z Mada movement rejected the appointment and demanded Rajoelina resign within 48 hours. Demonstrations began in September over water and power cuts and have escalated due to corruption and unemployment.
Security forces clashed with protesters in multiple cities as unrest continued into a third week. The UN reports at least 22 deaths during the protests. Last week, Rajoelina dismissed Prime Minister Christian Ntsay, a civilian, and his entire cabinet in an attempt to placate the protesters.
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