Rival Rallies Erupt in Madagascar Capital Following Deadly Youth Protests

In Madagascar's capital Antananarivo, rival rallies unfolded between supporters and opponents of President Andry Rajoelina following deadly youth-led protests driven by the online movement Gen Z Mada. The protests, inspired by similar movements abroad, express widespread frustration over poor governance and call for Rajoelina’s resignation. At least 22 people have died and hundreds have been injured, according to the United Nations, though the government disputes these figures as misinformation. Anti-government protesters were met with a heavy police presence and prevented from reaching Democracy Square, while pro-government rallies were allowed. President Rajoelina responded by dismissing his government and calling for dialogue but condemned the protests as an attempted coup without identifying the organizers. The unrest highlights the deep political and social divisions in Madagascar amid ongoing public dissatisfaction with basic services and governance.