Madagascar: Protest planned in Antananarivo July 24 /update 14

Event

Opposition political parties and unions are reportedly planning to stage an anti-government demonstration at Place du 13 Mai in Antananarivo on Tuesday, July 24. Transportation unions are notably expected to participate in the protest; consequent traffic disruptions are expected in the capital.

A heightened security presence is also anticipated near the protest site and clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. Additional related protests are possible in Antananarivo in the coming weeks.

Context

Protesters are denouncing the government's inability to fulfill the unions' demands, including better working conditions and cheaper fuel prices. The protest is reportedly also being planned to denounce the upcoming November presidential election, which critics say will not provide solutions to their socioeconomic grievances.

Furthermore, on June 11, President Hery Rajaonarimampianina announced that a new "consensus" government had been formed under newly elected Prime Minister Christian Ntsay. However, opposition leaders continue to call for key cabinet positions to be held by members of their party. Moreover, recurring anti-government protests have taken place for over three months, driven in large part by the passage of three controversial electoral bills passed in early April by the parliament. Police fired tear gas at demonstrators during an opposition march held on April 21, fatally wounding two people. Protests have continued in recent weeks despite a High Constitutional Court ruling on May 3 which declared the three laws to be unconstitutional.

Advice

Individuals in Madagascar, particularly in Antananarivo, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.