Overview

• The United Nations reports at least 22 dead and hundreds wounded as security forces block central Antananarivo and thousands rally in Antsiranana.
• Organizers broaden their platform to demand the dissolution of the Senate, the Constitutional Court and the electoral commission, plus a trial of businessman Many Ravatomanga.
• President Andry Rajoelina’s dismissal of his government and televised apology have not eased unrest, with demonstrators still insisting he step down.
• The inspectors’ union and the state water and power utility Jirama say they will strike in line with the nationwide call.
• Protests ignited over relentless water and electricity outages, and the UN says subsequent looting was carried out by gangs unrelated to core protesters; Pope Léon XIV voiced sorrow and urged pursuit of the common good.