Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has appointed army General Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the country’s new prime minister. This move follows the recent dissolution of the government, triggered by public fury over persistent power and water shortages. Rajoelina tasked Zafisambo with addressing protesters’ concerns and restoring water and electricity supply. However, the political reshuffle has not quelled the unrest, as demonstrators, inspired by youth-led movements in other nations, have returned to the streets for a third week. Their demands have now expanded, with many calling for Rajoelina’s own resignation, signaling that the appointment alone may not be enough to ease the deep-seated discontent over poverty and governance challenges facing the island nation.
Reuters