Thousands of people have taken to the streets across Madagascar in what has become the largest wave of protests in more than 15 years.
The demonstrations, which continued through the weekend, have turned deadly, with at least 22 people reported killed and more than 100 others injured.
According to local journalists, police in the capital Antananarivo were seen escorting pro-government demonstrators as they marched through the streets, in contrast to the heavy security response to anti-government protesters.
The unrest has been fuelled largely by youth-led demonstrations, particularly from Generation Z activists demanding political reforms and economic change.
A local journalist told the BBC that pro-government activists have been visiting the suburbs of the capital to echo President Andry Rajoelina’s recent warning that the protests have been infiltrated by politicians seeking to exploit the movement to overthrow his government.
On Sunday, Rajoelina addressed the nation via Facebook, cautioning citizens against what he described as “dangerous elements” attempting to destabilise the country.
The protests mark one of Madagascar’s most serious political crises in recent years, amid growing frustration over unemployment, corruption, and rising living costs.
–ChannelAfrica–
