Overview

• Soldiers from the Soanierana base near Antananarivo released a video urging security forces to join together and refuse orders to shoot at demonstrators.
• The demonstrations, launched by the youth-led Gen Z movement over water and electricity cuts, have expanded into a broader challenge to President Andry Rajoelina and drew thousands in the capital.
• Police used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse crowds, and AFP journalists observed groups of soldiers later joining protesters near Lac Anosy to cheers.
• UN human rights chief Volker Türk called on authorities to stop the use of unnecessary force and to respect freedom of assembly.
• The UN reports at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries since September 25, figures the president disputes as 12 deaths, while the newly appointed armed forces minister urged calm and dialogue.