Madagascar Strongman Sacks Government After Just 5 Months

Following a swift move, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the military leader and interim president of Madagascar, has dismissed his prime minister and disbanded the entire cabinet. The decision was announced without specifying the reasons, with the replacement prime minister set to be named “shortly.” This abrupt action marks the fifth month since Randrianirina seized power, a development that followed widespread youth-led protests against the previous administration in Antananarivo.

Randrianirina, who assumed leadership in October after former President Andry Rajoelina fled, appointed a private sector businessman, Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, as prime minister. A presidential spokesperson stated in a Monday evening declaration that the leader “declares the government suspended from its duties” under constitutional authority. The statement also hinted at a new appointment, though no timeline or rationale was provided for the dismissals.

“The main objectives of my term, which will last a maximum of two years, are to find concrete solutions for the people,” Randrianirina had said when unveiling the new government.

The dissolved cabinet, sworn in as recently as October 28, included a blend of civilian ministers, military officials, and individuals critical of Rajoelina’s rule. Randrianirina’s rise to power stemmed from demonstrations that began in September, initially sparked by water and power shortages but later escalating into broader anti-government unrest. His administration attempted to quell the protests through force, yet failed to suppress the growing dissent.

While Randrianirina rejects the term “coup,” he positions himself as the President of the Refoundation of the Republic, vowing a two-year transition period. In February, he unveiled plans for constitutional reform consultations through 2026 and a presidential election in the final quarter of 2027. These domestic initiatives were paired with international outreach, including visits to Vladimir Putin in Russia and Emmanuel Macron in France, his country’s former colonial ruler.

Randrianirina highlighted a “new era of cooperation” in Moscow and a “renewed” yet “balanced” relationship with Paris, emphasizing French disapproval as a central grievance of the prior regime. The government’s dissolution coincided with the African Union Peace and Security Council’s upcoming fourth meeting on Madagascar since the October upheaval. The nation has endured three coups since gaining independence from France in 1960, including events in 1972, 1975, and 2009.