Madagascar has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Antananarivo after violent protests swept through the capital.
Anger erupted on Thursday as hundreds of mostly young people defied a ban on public gatherings, demanding better electricity and water supply. Roads were barricaded with burning tyres and stones, forcing police to fire rubber bullets and tear gas in response.
By afternoon, shops, banks, and appliance stores were looted, while several stations of the city’s new cable car system were set ablaze. Homes of politicians close to President Andry Rajoelina were also attacked.
Hospitals confirmed that at least five people lost their lives during the unrest, which has become one of the biggest tests for the president in recent years. Security forces claim opportunists are exploiting the protests to destroy property, while some lawmakers describe the movement as politically motivated.
Despite being rich in natural resources, Madagascar remains among the poorest nations in the world, with three-quarters of its population living below the poverty line. Long power cuts, sometimes lasting more than 12 hours, continue to disrupt daily life for homes and businesses.