Overview

• Gen Z Madagascar announced a 24-hour suspension of marches in Antananarivo to preserve protesters’ health, calling the move a strategic pause rather than a retreat.
• Large demonstrations continued elsewhere, with thousands in Antsiranana and additional rallies reported in Toliara and Mahajanga.
• The United Nations reports at least 22 deaths and hundreds injured during the crackdown, figures the government rejects, as Amnesty International urges investigations and the release of detainees.
• President Andry Rajoelina dissolved his government earlier in the week, and the Senate convened to consider nominees for a new prime minister.
• Opposition figures, including Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko and former president Marc Ravalomanana, endorsed the movement, while local NGOs called for an end to repression and protesters pressed demands tied to water and power failures and institutional change.