On September 25, 2025, Madagascar’s government ordered a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Antananarivo. The move came after protests over power outages and water shortages turned violent, according to a senior security official.
Protests Turn Chaotic
Thousands of young protesters marched with signs, demanding better services. Police used tear gas to break up the crowds. The unrest spread to neighborhoods after the main rally.
Security Statement
General Angelo Ravelonarivo, head of a joint police-military group, said on local TV that some people were exploiting the situation to damage property.
“To safeguard people and their things, we’re enforcing a curfew from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. until order is back,” he announced.
Country’s Struggles
Madagascar, a poor Indian Ocean island, blames President Andry Rajoelina’s government, re-elected in 2023, for not fixing living conditions. Frequent blackouts and water cuts have fueled public anger.
Looting and Damage
The protests led to looting of a big shopping mall and vandalism of two lawmakers’ homes. Rescue teams worked at the sites as chaos grew.
Police Warning
On September 24, national police chief Jean Herbert Andriantahiana Rakotomalala warned that forces would take tough steps against law-breakers.
Security spokesperson Zafisambatra Ravoavy was unavailable for comment.
Why It Matters
The violence shows deep frustration in Madagascar, where poverty and service failures spark unrest. The curfew aims to calm things, but calls for change keep growing.
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