Massive youth-led protests have rocked Madagascar, forcing President Andry Rajoelina to dissolve his government. The demonstrations, led by Gen Z protesters, erupted over persistent water shortages and frequent power cuts, demanding accountability and systemic change. The unrest turned violent, with police firing teargas and rubber bullets, and the United Nations reporting at least 22 deaths. Protesters have adopted the One Piece pirate flag as their symbol, inspired by similar youth movements in Kenya and Nepal. Critics say the government was unprepared, while experts note that wildfires and resource challenges exacerbate social tensions in one of the world’s poorest nations.
