Madagascar: At Least 22 Dead in Protests

At least 22 people have been killed during protests in Madagascar, where security forces responded violently, according to a statement from the office of the UN human rights chief.

More than 100 people were injured. The head of the human rights service, Volker Türk, said he was shocked "by the killings and injuries in the protests over water and electricity." He called on the country's authorities to ensure respect for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

The deaths occurred after days of protests against frequent power outages and poor access to water. The island nation in the Indian Ocean has experienced frequent uprisings since gaining independence in 1960.

Source: ΚΥΠΕ