Hundreds of young people once again took to the streets of Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, on Saturday, September 27, led by the Gen Z Madagascar group, to demand access to water, electricity, and respect for freedom of expression. After violent clashes with law enforcement during the first day of protests on Thursday, the organizers called on social media for a peaceful march, urging participants to disperse at the first sign of violence to avoid putting more lives at risk.

Protesters gathered near the University of Ankatso in the Tsiadana district, located in the eastern part of the city. The procession was quickly stopped by heavily armed police officers. Tear gas was fired, and several people were reportedly injured.

"We have the right to express ourselves freely. The gendarmes are armed, but I am not afraid because we are defending our most basic rights," said a determined 26-year-old biology researcher, who saw the protests as very good news for the country. Standing next to him was a young woman with her face covered by a mask. She held a bouquet of flowers "in tribute to the victims of the protests and as a sign of peace," as well as a sign in Malagasy that read: "Aza vonoina ny vahoaka," meaning, "Do not kill the people." President Andry Rajoelina has become a deeply unpopular figure, with many demonstrators demanding his resignation. "We want the government to hear our voices, but we no longer trust it," said an 18-year-old high school student.

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