Madagascar imposes nighttime curfew after protests over water and power cuts

Madagascar's government on Thursday imposed a nighttime curfew after protests over ongoing water and power cuts escalated in the capital and across the island nation. Police reported that rubber bullets and tear gas were used to disperse crowds as demonstrators vented anger over prolonged outages that have left residents without electricity for extended periods.

Hundreds of protesters blocked roads with burning tires and rocks in Antananarivo and in provincial towns, challenging authorities amid rising frustration over services that residents say are unreliable and unaffordable. In the capital, clashes with security forces were reported, and looting occurred at retailers, appliance stores and banks. Several stations of the country's new cable car system were set on fire, complicating public transport amid the downturn in electricity.

Police Chief Angelo Ravelonarivo said the curfew would run from 7 p.m. Thursday to 5 a.m. Friday and would be strictly enforced until calm was restored. He said the measure was intended to protect the population as authorities seek to restore basic services.

The protests, which have been dominated by young people, began gaining momentum in recent days on social media, particularly Facebook. In the provinces, unrest spread to offices of the national water and electricity company, seen by demonstrators as the root of the outages and a symbol of the government's handling of the crisis.

Placards carried by demonstrators highlighted the belief that water and electricity are basic human needs and urged people to speak out and demand change. Some participants displayed black flags with the One Piece skull logo—an emblem that has appeared in anti-government protests in other regions, topped with a traditional Malagasy hat.

It was not immediately clear how many people were injured or whether fatalities occurred. The government has faced ongoing criticism over the reliability of power and water services, which have disrupted daily life for many residents, including businesses that rely on steady electricity.

The curfew announcement comes as Madagascar tries to quell demonstrations while contending with a broader debate over infrastructure investment and governance. In recent days, authorities reported vandalism and arson at several government and private facilities, including the offices of the state utility and the homes of politicians viewed as close to President Nirina Rajoelina. No immediate statements were issued about investigations or accountability for the damage.