Antananarivo: Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has announced the launch of a national dialogue aimed at easing the escalating unrest that has gripped the country for more than two weeks. The talks, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, will bring together religious leaders, youth representatives, civil society groups, and students in an effort to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

The decision follows a wave of nationwide protests initially sparked by severe water and electricity shortages but which have since evolved into a broader movement demanding government accountability and Rajoelina’s resignation. Protesters, led largely by youth groups identifying themselves as “Gen Z Madagascar,” accuse the government of corruption and mismanagement, and have rejected recent cabinet changes as insufficient.

President Rajoelina recently appointed General Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the new Prime Minister, replacing the previous cabinet in a move he described as part of a plan to restore order and implement reforms. However, opposition groups and demonstrators have dismissed the appointment as a cosmetic change, arguing that it further consolidates military influence in government rather than addressing public grievances.

According to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in clashes since the protests began in late September. The government disputes these figures, maintaining that security forces have acted with restraint. A nighttime curfew remains in place in Antananarivo as authorities attempt to control sporadic violence and looting.

The protesters have issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding the president’s resignation, the release of detained demonstrators, and assurances of political freedom. While the national dialogue is seen as a step toward negotiation, many participants remain skeptical of its sincerity, fearing it could be used to delay meaningful change.

Observers note that the unrest marks one of the most serious challenges to Rajoelina’s leadership since his return to power in 2019. Analysts warn that without tangible progress in addressing the country’s economic hardships, poor infrastructure, and governance issues, the dialogue could fail to calm public anger.

International human rights groups have urged both the government and protesters to pursue non-violent solutions and ensure that the dialogue includes all voices, particularly those of the young people driving the movement. The coming days are expected to be crucial in determining whether Madagascar moves toward reconciliation or deeper political instability.