Madagascar President Calls for Nationwide Prayers Amid Surge in Kidnappings and Murders

President Colonel Michaël Randrianirina addressed a crowd in Morondava during the consecration of Bishop Jeannot Martial Andrianandrainy, urging all religious communities to pray for Madagascar. He highlighted a wave of insecurity marked by more than 250 reported disappearances, numerous kidnappings and murders, and nine deaths recorded in July alone.

The president stressed that the government cannot tackle the crisis alone and appealed for spiritual support from churches to foster unity, combat corruption, and change societal attitudes. The ceremony, attended by the prime minister, cabinet members and other officials, underscored the gravity of the national security situation and the call for a collective prayer effort.

Randrianirina also referenced a recent national day of mourning for victims of the violence, emphasizing that prayers should accompany political action to restore safety and confidence across the country.