Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in Friday as Madagascar’s new president, two days after leading a military coup that ousted longtime leader Andry Rajoelina. The ceremony, held at the High Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, marked the beginning of military rule in the island nation for the first time in more than a decade.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Randrianirina, wearing a dark uniform and surrounded by senior officers, took the oath of office under tight security. In his first speech as president, he promised to restore stability and unity to a country shaken by weeks of protests.

“I will dedicate all my strength to defending and strengthening national unity and human rights,” Randrianirina said. “This is a historic turning point for Madagascar.”

The military takeover followed weeks of demonstrations over power cuts, unemployment, corruption, and rising living costs. Young people—many calling themselves “Gen Z Madagascar”—led the protests, demanding better governance and economic opportunity.

Coup and Political Upheaval

Tensions escalated earlier this week when parts of the military defected and refused to suppress protesters. Randrianirina’s elite CAPSAT unit took control of key government buildings on Tuesday, forcing Rajoelina to flee the country.

Within hours, the National Assembly voted to impeach Rajoelina, accusing him of abandoning his duties and failing to address the country’s mounting crises. Randrianirina then announced the dissolution of state institutions, except for parliament, and declared a two-year transitional government under military supervision.

“We are not here to seize power for ourselves,” Randrianirina told reporters. “We are here to rebuild a nation that has been neglected.”

Reactions From the Region and Abroad

The international community quickly condemned the power grab. The African Union suspended Madagascar’s membership, calling the coup unconstitutional and demanding an immediate return to civilian rule.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also denounced the move, urging all parties to “respect democratic norms and the rule of law.”

Neighboring African governments expressed concern that the coup could set a dangerous precedent in the region, where several countries have faced similar takeovers in recent years.

Public Response and Growing Uncertainty

In the capital, some residents celebrated the new leadership, expressing hope that the army might bring order after years of political instability. Others, however, feared that the military’s promises could fade once it consolidates power.

“I hope this means real change,” said Riana, a 28-year-old protester. “But we’ve heard promises before. We need jobs, electricity, and honest leaders.”

Madagascar has struggled with political turmoil since gaining independence from France in 1960. The country experienced coups in 1975, 1991, 2002, and 2009—when Rajoelina himself seized power as a young mayor backed by the military.

Economically, the country faces deep poverty, food insecurity, and limited foreign investment. Analysts warn that sanctions or aid cuts following the coup could worsen these challenges.

Randrianirina said his transitional government will prepare new elections “within 18 to 24 months.” However, no clear timeline or process has been set. Opposition parties and civil groups have urged the army to quickly hand over power to a civilian administration.

International observers say the coming months will test whether the new regime will respect its commitments or extend its rule.

“The real measure of this transition will be how it handles democracy,” said an African Union official who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Madagascar has seen many takeovers, but its people are demanding lasting reform this time.”

For now, calm has returned to the streets of Antananarivo, but uncertainty looms. Many Madagascans remain hopeful yet cautious as their country begins another uncertain chapter under military rule.