Col. Michael Randrianirina has been officially sworn in as Madagascar’s new president, just days after a military takeover that ended weeks of unrest in the island nation. At a ceremony held at the Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, the 47-year-old army officer traded his military uniform for a dark suit, vowing to steer the country toward stability and reform. The event drew a large crowd, including many young protesters who had rallied for change. “Today marks a historic turning point for our country,” Randrianirina said. “With a people united in their desire for change, we open a new chapter in the life of our nation.”
The swearing-in follows the impeachment and flight of former President Andry Rajoelina, who fled the country after weeks of demonstrations calling for his resignation. The protests, initially driven by a youth collective called Gen Z Mada, were sparked by persistent power and water shortages but soon evolved into a wider movement against corruption and poor governance. The Constitutional Court President, Florent Rakotoarisoa, rejected international criticism describing the transition as a “coup,” arguing instead that the political crisis stemmed from constitutional flaws.
Madagascar now enters a transitional period marked by both political uncertainty and cautious optimism. Many citizens hope Randrianirina’s rise backed by a broad youth movement will bring an end to years of instability and restore trust in national institutions. Regional organizations and international partners are watching closely, urging the new leadership to uphold constitutional order and prepare the ground for free and transparent elections in the coming months.
