Madagascar is facing deep political turmoil after Colonel Michael Randrianirina seized power through a military coup. After weeks of nationwide protests led by the “Gen Z Madagascar” youth movement, the new regime was established. The demonstrations, which began in September over chronic power and water shortages, quickly escalated into broader calls for systemic change. The situation forced former President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.
Despite being impeached by lawmakers for desertion of duty, Rajoelina has condemned the military takeover and insists he remains the legitimate leader. Speaking from an undisclosed location, he denied having resigned and accused the new regime of spreading false information to mislead the public.
Randrianirina, now acting as president, has appointed businessman Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as prime minister, citing his experience and international connections. His rapid consolidation of power was formalized by the High Constitutional Court, which validated the coup just hours after it occurred.
However, the United Nations and the African Union have strongly condemned the coup, with the latter suspending Madagascar’s membership. Randrianirina’s rise from an obscure army colonel to national leader was marked by his dramatic public. He appeared on an armored vehicle, joining demonstrators and transforming into the face of the uprising that toppled Rajoelina’s administration.
Reference
News Agency. (2025, October 20). Madagascar’s new prime minister named after military coup. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/10/20/madagascars-new-prime-minister-named-after-military-coup