Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in on Friday as the new President of Madagascar, following a dramatic week in which the military seized power and ousted former President Andry Rajoelina, who fled the country amid escalating tensions.
Randrianirina, who led the CAPSAT army unit that mutinied earlier in the week, took the presidential oath days after the military announced it had assumed control, citing Rajoelina’s impeachment for desertion of duty on Tuesday.
“Today marks a historic turning point for our country,” Randrianirina declared in his inaugural address. “We will work hand in hand with all the driving forces of the nation to draft a new constitution and agree on electoral laws for the organisation of future elections and referendums.”
The new leader expressed gratitude to the youth who played a key role in the nationwide protests that culminated in Rajoelina’s removal, crediting them for “spearheading the movement for change.”
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Randrianirina also stated that the army’s intervention came at the request of Madagascar’s top court, emphasizing that it was necessary to “avoid anarchy and disorder” as political unrest deepened.
The military takeover and Rajoelina’s abrupt flight have triggered international concern, with several global bodies warning of a potential return to instability on the island nation.
Randrianirina, however, has pledged to steer Madagascar toward a new democratic path, promising inclusive governance and swift preparations for constitutional and electoral reforms.