Madagascar: Indefinite general strike launched April 30 /update 2

Event

Opposition activists - who have been staging daily protests since April 21 to denounce controversial electoral laws recently ratified by the Malagasy parliament and to demand the resignation of president Hery Rajaonarimampianina - have called for an indefinite nationwide general strike starting from Monday, April 30. All administrative and business activities are expected to be closed until further notice. Further related protests are likely, especially at the Place du 13 Mai (Independence Square) and near the City Hall in Antananarivo in the coming days. Heightened security measures are expected.

Context

Clashes broke out between protesters and security forces during the protest held on April 21, in which three people were killed and 20 others wounded before the demonstration was dispersed.

On April 3, pro-government MPs passed three controversial electoral bills in a vote boycotted by opposition MPs. The laws were approved on April 12 by the senate, after which opposition supporters protested in front of the High Constitutional Court, calling for their annulment.

In addition to the introduction of new electoral laws, protesters are also denouncing widespread corruption, the high prices of rice and transportation, and inflation.

Advice

Individuals in Madagascar, particularly in Antananarivo, are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence.