Madagascar faces acts that resemble a coup attempt disguised as protests, with widespread looting and violence destroying businesses and homes. Anonymous paid groups exploited legitimate concerns to set government buildings on fire and rob banks, necessitating security measures. Rajoelina is doing the right thing by dismissing officials who have failed, while strongly condemning the looting that threatens national stability. Violent protests are no solution and will get Madagascar nowhere.

Madagascar's security forces brutally cracked down on peaceful protests with live ammunition, killing at least 22 people and injuring over a hundred. The Rajoelina government responded to legitimate demonstrations for basic water and electricity services with unnecessary and disproportionate force. A government that shoots its own people cannot be trusted to manage the future of a country, and international human rights law demands an immediate investigation and justice for these shocking killings.

Madagascar faces acts that resemble a coup attempt disguised as protests, with widespread looting and violence destroying businesses and homes. Anonymous paid groups exploited legitimate concerns to set government buildings on fire and rob banks, necessitating security measures. Rajoelina is doing the right thing by dismissing officials who have failed, while strongly condemning the looting that threatens national stability. Violent protests are no solution and will get Madagascar nowhere.