A military contingent joined thousands of anti-government demonstrators in Madagascar on Saturday, calling on security forces to "refuse orders to shoot" and condemning police action to quell over two weeks of youth-led protests that have rocked the Indian Ocean island.

The newly appointed premier on Saturday night said the government was "standing strong" and "ready to collaborate and listen to all forces -- the youth, trade unions, and the military".

"Madagascar will not be able to withstand any further crises if this division among the people continues," Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Dimbisoa Zafisambo said in a short video speech.

The presidency meanwhile sent out a statement ensuring that President Andry Rajoelina "remains in the country" and "continues to manage national affairs".

Saturday's demonstration in the capital Antananarivo was one of the biggest since the protest movement erupted on September 25, sparked by anger over power and water shortages.

Police used stun grenades and tear gas to........

© International Business Times