Antananarivo: Madagascar finds itself in a turbulent political moment as Colonel Michael Randrianirina prepares to be sworn in as the nation’s president, following a military-led takeover that toppled President Andry Rajoelina. Sources indicate that the transition comes after widespread civil unrest and protests demanding improved governance, stable public services, and an end to systemic issues such as chronic power outages and water shortages. The upheaval has drawn significant domestic and international attention, highlighting the fragility of the island nation’s political institutions.
Colonel Randrianirina, 51, is a seasoned officer of the elite CAPSAT military unit, who previously supported Rajoelina’s rise to power in 2009 but gradually became a vocal critic of the administration. His public stance against the government intensified in recent years over its handling of public utilities and governance failures. In 2023, he faced arrest for allegedly inciting a military mutiny, though he was later given a suspended sentence and reinstated. His recent call for troops not to fire on protesters proved pivotal, triggering defections within the military and enabling the momentum for a coup.
The crisis escalated dramatically on October 14, 2025, when the lower house of Madagascar’s parliament voted to impeach President Rajoelina. The embattled leader fled the country, leaving a power vacuum that the military quickly filled. In the immediate aftermath, most state institutions, including the Senate and the High Constitutional Court, were dissolved, leaving only the National Assembly operational. The Supreme Court subsequently invited Colonel Randrianirina to serve as interim president, emphasizing the urgent need to restore stability and instructing him to organize elections within 60 days to reestablish constitutional governance.
International observers have expressed deep concern over Madagascar’s rapid political shift. Russia, in a statement, underscored the importance of preventing bloodshed and called on all parties to exercise restraint. While affirming that the developments are an internal matter, Moscow expressed hope that Madagascar would return to democratic norms. Other global actors are closely monitoring the situation, wary of the potential for further unrest and instability.
As Madagascar braces for a transitional period under Colonel Randrianirina, the nation faces critical decisions about its political future. The challenge will be balancing military oversight with the restoration of civilian governance, ensuring stability, and safeguarding democratic principles. How the new leadership navigates these turbulent waters will determine whether Madagascar emerges stronger or faces prolonged uncertainty.