Madagascar: Political protests continue June 14 /update 12

Event

Supporters of the political opposition party held a demonstration in Antananarivo on Thursday, June 14, to denounce the newly formed Malagasy government. Protesters gathered at Place du 13 Mai, which has been the site for regular demonstrations in recent months. Protesters called for newly elected Prime Minister Christian Ntsay to resign from office, just ten days after his appointment. Ntsay has called for calm; however, further protests are likely in the coming days and weeks. Clashes between pro-government and opposition supporters are possible, and a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are likely surrounding any such demonstrations.

Context

On June 11, President Hery Rajaonarimampianina announced that the new “consensus” government had been formed under Ntsay. However, opposition leaders continue to call for key cabinet positions to be held by members of their party. 

The anti-government protests ongoing now in Madagascar for almost two months are linked to three controversial electoral bills passed in early April by the parliament. During an opposition march held on April 21, police fired teargas at demonstrators, fatally wounding two people. On May 3, the High Constitutional Court ruled the three laws unconstitutional; however, protests continued despite the ruling. On May 31, Defense Minister Beni Xavier Rasolofonirina threatened to intervene militarily if the government and opposition failed to find a solution to the crisis.

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.