Antananarivo: Authorities in Madagascar have imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the capital, Antananarivo, after violent protests erupted over persistent power outages and water shortages. The curfew, announced by General Angelo Ravelonarivo, head of a combined police and military security unit, is in effect from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. to safeguard citizens and property.

The demonstrations, largely led by youth activists, escalated despite a prior ban on gatherings. Protesters demanded reliable access to electricity and clean water, and the unrest resulted in significant property damage, including the looting and burning of a major shopping mall and vandalism of two lawmakers' homes.

Security forces responded to the protests by deploying tear gas to disperse the crowds. The unrest has spread across multiple neighborhoods in Antananarivo, highlighting widespread public frustration with infrastructure failures. Critics have blamed President Andry Rajoelina, re-elected in 2023, accusing his administration of neglecting basic services.

National police chief Jean Herbert Andriantahiana Rakotomalala warned that authorities would take firm action against any illegal activities during the unrest.

The curfew remains in place as the government seeks to restore order and address the growing public dissatisfaction with essential services.