Madagascar strongman sacks government after just 5 months
Madagascar Strongman Sacks Government After Just 5 Months
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the military leader and interim president of Madagascar, has dismissed his prime minister and dissolved the entire Cabinet. The move came without explicit reasons, though he indicated a replacement would be announced “shortly.” This marks the first significant shake-up of the government since Randrianirina assumed power five months ago, following widespread youth-led protests against the former administration in Antananarivo.
Protests and Power Transition
randrianirina’s rise to authority was triggered by demonstrations that began in September, initially sparked by water and power shortages. These protests quickly escalated into broader anti-government unrest, which the Rajoelina government attempted to quell through force but failed to contain. The former president, Andry Rajoelina, fled the country last October, paving the way for randrianirina’s leadership. His government, sworn in as recently as October 28, included a blend of civilian officials, military personnel, and critics of Rajoelina’s regime.
“The government is suspended from its duties,” declared a presidential spokesperson in a statement released late Monday. The announcement was made without specifying a timeline or rationale for the dismissals, leaving the decision shrouded in ambiguity. A new prime minister will be appointed “shortly,” though no date has been provided for this transition.
randrianirina has consistently rejected the label of “coup,” instead referring to himself as President of the Refoundation of the Republic. He claims the Constitutional Court transferred power to him and has pledged a two-year transition period to address the nation’s challenges. “My term, which will last a maximum of two years, aims to deliver concrete solutions for the people,” he stated when outlining his vision for the new administration.
Domestic and International Agendas
In February, randrianirina unveiled a constitutional reform initiative, setting consultations for 2026 and planning a presidential election by late 2027. These domestic plans coincided with international outreach, including visits to Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron. The leader emphasized a “new era of cooperation” in Moscow and a “renewed” yet “balanced” partnership with Paris, highlighting French opposition as a key driver of the previous government’s downfall.
Monday’s announcement of the government’s dissolution also preceded the African Union Peace and Security Council’s (PSC) fourth meeting on Madagascar since the October turmoil. The nation has a history of political instability, having experienced three coups d’état since its independence from France in 1960: in 1972, 1975, and 2009.
