The African Union Commission chairperson has called for resilience and dialogue in protest-hit Madagascar where security forces, according to the UN’s human rights, have used “unnecessary force”, killing at least 22 people and wounding 100 others.
The so-called Gen-Z protests broke out last week with thousands of predominantly young demonstrators taking to the streets in cities across Madagascar under the rallying cry: “We want to live, not survive”.
The Chairperson in a statement said Monday that he has learnt with regret the manifestations in Antananarivo, which have led to the destruction of socio-economic activities.
He expressed concern over the ongoing developments in the country and called for restraint and calm, while encouraging dialogue to resolve the situation.
The Chairperson reiterated the unwavering commitment of the African Union to continue working with the Government of Madagascar and with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in engaging the parties for a redress to the ongoing situation.
Madagascar’s president said he will dissolve his government, following days of youth-led protests over longstanding water and power cuts.
“We acknowledge and apologize if members of the government have not carried out the tasks assigned to them,” Andry Rajoelina said in a televised national address on Monday.
Protests first started in the capital Antananarivo, but have since spread to eight cities across the country.
A dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed in Antananarivo after reports of violence and looting, with police firing rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowds.
MG/as/APA