Madagascar’s new head of state appointed a civilian prime minister Monday after last week’s military takeover unsettled the nation.
Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who assumed the presidency Friday, announced the military had seized power following ex-president Andry Rajoelina’s impeachment.
Rajoelina fled after weeks of protests against chronic power cuts escalated into a mass anti-government movement across Antananarivo.
Randrianirina vowed sweeping reforms and new elections in the impoverished island nation, promising stability and collaboration with all national stakeholders.
After consulting the national assembly, he named Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, a private sector leader and former BNI bank chairman, as premier Monday.
Randrianirina praised Rajaonarivelo’s experience and international connections, saying he could effectively engage foreign organisations to support Madagascar’s development.
The new president insisted the appointment of the prime minister “scrupulously followed the Constitution” and rejected accusations of leading a coup.
Randrianirina led the CAPSAT army unit that mutinied October 11, condemning violence against anti-government protesters and joining the uprising in the capital.
The military intervention marked a turning point in the weeks-long unrest, prompting Rajoelina to evacuate first to Reunion, then Dubai, via a French military plane.
Supporters of the ousted president decried the takeover, while the constitutional court confirmed its legality, deepening divisions across Madagascar’s fragile political landscape.
