Yesterday was declared a paid public holiday to pay tribute to the victims of kidnappings and murders. Despite this, the residents of Tananarive continued their daily activities.
It was a day almost like any other. Daily life went on during the national mourning. At the Analakely market, many vendors returned to their stalls to continue their business. Some street vendors even mingled with those who came to attend the ecumenical service organized by the Council of Christian Churches in Madagascar (FFKM) to pay tribute to the victims, held yesterday at the Analakely square.
In several peripheral neighborhoods of the capital, activity did not completely stop. Despite the national mourning declared across the territory, residents continued to travel, shop, and for some, work.
Several large shops opened their doors, even though the day was declared a paid holiday. For some residents, daily life had to go on regardless.
The crowds were particularly noticeable in Behoririka and Analakely, although there were fewer cars than usual.
Some residents chose to participate in the ecumenical service. “I came to Analakely specifically to attend this mass. But I think in the afternoon, I will resume my daily activities and sell my goods,” said Rakotoarisolo, a father.
Most bars serving alcohol kept their doors closed during the day, in accordance with the measures taken for the national mourning, though some establishments began to reopen in the evening.
For some, the necessity of working remains a reality. “We must continue to work. We have expenses to cover and families to feed. Moreover, we are self-employed. This does not mean we minimize the pain of the victims’ families,” explained Sahondra, a vendor in Analakely.
For her, even if the day was marked by mourning and reflection, daily realities remain unavoidable.
The atmosphere in the streets remained different from ordinary days. The sadness and respect associated with the national mourning were palpable at the Analakely square, but the need to work and satisfy essential needs continued to prevail. In Behoririka, Analakely, and other neighborhoods of the capital, daily life continued during this day of national mourning.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-25 06:24:06 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/deuil-national-les-tananariviens.html