Antananarivo is experiencing renewed tensions. Faced with persistent power outages that plunge entire neighborhoods into darkness, popular weariness has given way to anger. Spontaneous demonstrations are multiplying in the capital, increasing the pressure on the transitional government.

Popular exasperation is reaching a breaking point

For several days, daily life in Antananarivo has been paralyzed by power cuts that can last an entire day. As soon as night falls, darkness descends, forcing businesses to close prematurely and profoundly disrupting the daily lives of families.

This repeated power outage has led to a wave of spontaneous gatherings . In neighborhoods like Tsimbazaza, Anosy, Isotry, and 67 Ha, residents are taking to the streets, burning tires, and demanding action from the authorities. On Saturday, November 22, at least four neighborhoods saw demonstrations involving people of all ages.

"Enough is enough. We have been living in darkness for days. How can we work, how can we study?" exclaimed a mother in Tsimbazaza, summarizing the general feeling of frustration and the fear of a lasting deterioration of the situation.

A transitional power in the face of the specter of the past

These disturbances occurred a month after Colonel Michaël Randrianirina , the new President of the Republic of Madagascar, came to power following the fall of Andry Rajoelina on September 25. Previous mobilizations, particularly those of "Gen Z," were already directly linked to recurring problems of access to water and electricity.

The new head of state had promised to prioritize addressing the population's urgent needs. Yet, a month later, the situation has not improved. The continued water cuts, coupled with water shortages in several areas, are a direct consequence of the political crisis of September.

In an attempt to calm the situation, the President addressed the nation on television on November 16, calling for patience and explaining that "the problem could not be solved in two or even six months." He also announced the order of new generators. These long-term promises failed to convince a population demanding immediate, even temporary, measures to alleviate the economic losses suffered by small businesses (hair salons, workshops, restaurants).

An energy and hydraulic system on its last legs

The current crisis is a symptom of a profound deterioration of public services, managed by the public company JIRAMA .

1. Outdated infrastructure: Production equipment is often obsolete and struggles to meet growing demand.
2. Management problems: The company is regularly criticized for its inefficiency and lack of investment.
3. Multiple constraints: Budgetary constraints, lack of spare parts and dependence on fragile energy sources keep the national network in a precarious state.

The water service is not spared, with residents of the capital spending hours searching for something to fill their jerrycans.

Despite the change in political direction, the underlying causes of the anger remain. The gatherings, though scattered, are a sign of real and lasting social unrest . For the transitional government, the urgent task is to contain the discontent and demonstrate an ability to provide basic essential services: electricity, water, and continuity of services.