Overview

• Police tightened control in central Antananarivo as anti-government demonstrators prepared to reconvene and pro-government supporters planned a separate gathering at the Coliseum.
• Protest organizers issued a 24-hour ultimatum seeking consultation on the prime minister selection and an investigation into the security response, vowing “all necessary measures” if ignored.
• President Andry Rajoelina rejected calls to quit, denounced the unrest as a coup attempt, and alleged a foreign-led digital manipulation campaign, a claim echoed by the foreign minister.
• The United Nations reports at least 22 people killed and hundreds injured, a toll the government disputes, while Amnesty International urged thorough investigations and the release of detainees.
• Unions, including customs, prison staff, and water and electricity workers, announced strikes as the opposition formally backed the Gen Z movement and protests continued in multiple cities after a brief tactical pause.