Antananarivo: Colonel Michael Randrianirina was officially sworn in as Madagascar’s president on Friday, following a military coup that ousted former leader Andry Rajoelina. Randrianirina, who commands the elite CAPSAT unit, took the oath at the High Constitutional Court in the capital, Antananarivo, amid cheers and military honors.

The coup was triggered by widespread youth-led protests over chronic power and water shortages, which intensified over the past month. Rajoelina fled the country earlier this week and was impeached by lawmakers shortly thereafter. Despite his exile, Rajoelina has refused to officially resign, denouncing the military takeover.

Randrianirina pledged to uphold national unity and human rights during his inauguration. He announced that a military-led committee would govern alongside a transitional administration for up to two years before elections are held. This plan aims to restore stability and address the nation's deep-rooted socio-economic challenges, including widespread poverty and a youthful population.

The African Union and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres have condemned the coup, calling for a return to civilian governance. Despite the military's assurances, many young protesters remain skeptical and continue to demand a government more responsive to the public.

Madagascar, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, faces significant economic challenges. The average annual income is approximately $600, despite valuable exports like vanilla and sapphires. The unrest underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address the aspirations of the country's young population.

As the nation embarks on this uncertain path, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the crisis.