The presidency said the decision was taken following Tuesday's cabinet meeting over fears the situation could lead to public disorder. The Indian Ocean island, which relies on oil to produce much of its electricity, is dependent on fuel imports from the Middle East - and supplies are likely to be disrupted for some time despite the two-week ceasefire announced overnight. Last year, persistent power and water shortages in Madagascar led to youth-led protests, which escalated to broader political unrest, resulting in a military takeover. It is not clear exactly what measures the government intends to take - but it says it now has the powers to stabilise the country's power sector, mitigate further disruptions, manage consumption and ensure continuity of public services. So far fuel prices have not increased since the crisis began though there have been shortages with reports of drivers queuing for hours. News of the state of emergency led to panic buying at some petrol stations on Wednesday - with some reportedly rationing how much each customer can buy, according to local media. (BBC)