The situation in the capital, Antananarivo, remained relatively calm

The situation in the Madagascan capital, Antananarivo, remained relatively calm on 29 January 2009. Reports indicate that many shops and businesses were closed after Antananarivo Mayor Andry Rajoelina called for opposition supporters to make the capital a "ghost town" in protest over President Marc Ravalomanana's allegedly undemocratic policies. Other stores closed over fears of looting. The city's schools were also closed, but the strike did not affect public transportation. The general strike on 29 January is expected to last through 30 January. Rajoelina has also called for mass demonstrations in the capital on 31 January. Authorities stated that the daily 0800-0500 curfew has helped to calm violence in the city, but an upsurge in unrest remains possible in the near future. At least 44 and possibly as many as 80 people have been killed in the rioting since 25 January, most of whom authorities believe were looters who were caught in burning buildings when they collapsed.