Madagascar: Large protests planned in Antananarivo April 28-29 /update 1

Event

Large demonstrations protesting electoral laws recently ratified by the Malagasy parliament and demanding the resignation of president Hery Rajaonarimampianina are expected to take place at the Place du 13 Mai (Independence Square) and near the City Hall in Antananarivo on Saturday, April 28, and Sunday, April 29. Heightened security measures are expected near the protests. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible, as well as localized traffic disruptions in the vicinity of the demonstrations.

Context

Notably, a related demonstration took place in the capital on April 21; clashes broke out between protesters and security forces, 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 the reforms to be annulled.

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.