Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has dismissed the country’s energy minister following widespread public outrage over prolonged daily power outages lasting more than 12 hours.
The move comes as protests over electricity and water shortages enter their third day.
Demonstrators, demanding urgent government intervention, took to the streets in what were described as “peaceful demonstrations.”
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However, police reportedly used rubber bullets to disperse crowds, resulting in five deaths.
The African Union has called for restraint and urged all parties to engage in dialogue to resolve the crisis gripping the East African nation.
Homes and businesses across Madagascar continue to suffer from crippling utility disruptions, fueling growing unrest.
