Madagascar strongman sacks government after just 5 months
Madagascar Strongman Sacks Government After Just 5 Months
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the military leader and interim president of Madagascar, has dismissed his prime minister and suspended the entire Cabinet. The decision, made without specifying the cause, promises a new prime minister will be announced “shortly.” This move follows his seizure of power five months ago, sparked by youth-driven protests that initially targeted water and power shortages but soon escalated into broader anti-government unrest in Antananarivo.
Formation and Dissolution of the Cabinet
The previous Cabinet, which included civilian ministers, military personnel, and critics of the outgoing Rajoelina administration, was sworn in as late as October 28. Randrianirina selected Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, a private sector businessman, as prime minister after former President Andry Rajoelina fled the country last October. A presidential statement released Monday confirmed the suspension, stating the government was “discontinued from its duties” under constitutional provisions. No timeline or justification for the dismissals was provided.
“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 introducing the new government.
Protests and Political Context
Randrianirina’s rise began with demonstrations in September, initially focused on resource shortages but later transforming into sustained opposition to the Rajoelina regime. The military leader rejected the term “coup,” instead claiming to be the “President of the Refoundation of the Republic.” He asserts the Constitutional Court transferred authority to him, pledging a two-year transition to stabilize the nation.
In February, he unveiled a constitutional reform initiative targeting 2026 and set a presidential election for late 2027. These domestic steps aligned with international efforts, including visits to Russian President Vladimir Putin and French leader Emmanuel Macron. Randrianirina framed these engagements as fostering a “new era of cooperation” in Moscow and a “renewed” yet “balanced” alliance with Paris, where French policies had drawn significant protest during the previous administration.
Historical Precedents
Madagascar has a history of political upheaval, having endured three coups since gaining independence from France in 1960: in 1972, 1975, and 2009. The recent dissolution of the government marks the fourth such crisis in less than a year, as the African Union Peace and Security Council prepares to meet for its fourth session on the island nation since October’s turbulent events.
