Madagascar: Authorities suspend lockdown measures in Vakinankaratra following violent protests in Antsirabe, May 6

Event

Authorities in the Vakinankaratra region have suspended plans for a 15-day COVID-19-related lockdown following protests in Antsirabe, overnight May 6/7. Incidents in Antsirabe had been preceded by other demonstrations across Vakinankaratra. Protests escalated after security forces reportedly seized property belonging to street vendors who had failed to comply with the new edict. A quarantine facility was damaged during the clashes. Protests follow a decision by the region's authorities to apply lockdown measures across Vakinankaratra from May 5; the region and five others have been isolated from the rest of the country due to a high number of COVID-19 cases. A 21:00-04:00 curfew is also in place.

Further protests calling for the easing of more measures remain possible. An increased security presence is likely to remain in place across Antsirabe in the coming days as a precaution.

Advice

Monitor for updates on further demonstrations. Avoid all large gatherings. Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.