Reuters: Madagascar’s military leader Randrianirina sworn in as president

Colonel Michael Randrianirina has officially assumed the presidency of Madagascar following a military takeover earlier this week, according to Reuters.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the High Constitutional Court, marking the formal transfer of power after nationwide youth-led protests over persistent electricity and water shortages forced former President Andry Rajoelina to flee.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of the elite CAPSAT military unit, has led a mutiny that forced President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country for his safety.

The military takeover comes after weeks of youth-led protests, primarily organised by groups calling themselves “Gen Z Madagascar,” which demanded improved governance and greater opportunities in a nation long plagued by poverty.

The unrest reached a critical point on October 11, when Randrianirina and his troops joined demonstrations calling for Rajoelina’s resignation.

Rajoelina, first elected president in 2018 and re-elected in 2023, had dismissed his government last month in an attempt to placate protesters. He has condemned the military takeover as an unlawful coup.

Madagascar has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups since gaining independence from France in 1960, and the nation continues to struggle with widespread poverty. A previous military-led coup in 2009 brought Rajoelina to power as a transitional leader.

By Aghakazim Guliyev