Madagascar’s New Leader Randrianirina Outlines Bold Roadmap in First National Address.
ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar – In a historic address broadcast live across the nation on Sunday evening, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, Madagascar’s interim president, unveiled a comprehensive six-point roadmap aimed at “refounding” the island republic amid ongoing political transition. Speaking from the presidential palace in the capital, Randrianirina emphasized national unity, transparency, and long-term stability, framing the initiative as a direct response to the youth-led protests that propelled him to power just weeks ago. The speech, his first formal national address since assuming office on October 17, 2025, drew cautious optimism from civil society leaders while underscoring the challenges of rebuilding trust in a country scarred by decades of instability.
A Turning Point Born from Unrest
Randrianirina’s ascent followed a dramatic military-led takeover on October 14, 2025, which ousted former President Andry Rajoelina amid widespread “Gen Z” demonstrations. Sparked by chronic shortages of electricity and water, the protests—led largely by young Malagasy frustrated with corruption and inequality—escalated into calls for systemic overhaul. At least 22 people were killed in clashes with security forces, according to United Nations reports, before Randrianirina’s elite CAPSAT unit broke ranks, joining protesters and dissolving key institutions except the National Assembly.
Sworn in at the High Constitutional Court on October 17, the 51-year-old colonel—born in the southern Androy region and a veteran of Madagascar’s special forces—promised a break from the past. “Sixty-five years after independence, Madagascar remains one of the world’s poorest nations,” he declared during his inauguration, vowing to address the “pillage of resources and embezzlement of public goods” that fueled public outrage. With an average population age under 20 and poverty affecting three-quarters of its 30 million citizens, the nation faces acute vulnerabilities, including malnutrition impacting 1.3 million people, per World Bank and UN data.
In the intervening month, Randrianirina has moved swiftly to consolidate his administration. On November 1, he appointed a mostly civilian cabinet under Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, including critics of the Rajoelina era and just four military figures among 29 ministers. The move signals a hybrid military-civilian governance model, with elections slated within two years. International partners, including the U.S. ambassador, attended his swearing-in, though the African Union suspended Madagascar’s membership and the UN condemned the events as a coup—charges Randrianirina rejects, insisting his actions “answered the people’s calls.
“The Six Pillars of Refoundation
Delivered in Malagasy to underscore cultural sovereignty—a deliberate nod to distancing from colonial legacies—Randrianirina’s address launched a “national concertation” process, inviting input from civil society, political parties, youth groups, and traditional leaders. The roadmap, which he described as “the collective will to build a just, stable, and sustainable republic,” centers on six interconnected priorities:
Restoring Trust Between State and Citizens: Randrianirina pledged immediate community dialogues to rebuild faith in institutions eroded by years of graft. “The state must serve, not exploit,” he said, announcing decentralized forums starting in Antananarivo next month.
Strengthening Governance and Transparency: Reforms will include digitalizing public services and mandating open budgets for all ministries. Drawing from the Gen Z demands for accountability, the plan targets universal access to essentials like water, electricity, healthcare, and education within 18 months.
Intensifying the Fight Against Corruption: A new independent anti-corruption commission, staffed by civilians and overseen by the transitional council, will audit past dealings and prosecute embezzlement cases. Randrianirina highlighted this as key to “ending the cycle of injustice.”
Guaranteeing the Republican Role of Armed Forces: The military, paramilitary gendarmerie, and police will form a supervisory committee but commit to non-partisan duties. “Our forces protect the people, not power,” he affirmed, echoing his earlier refusal to repress protesters.
Drafting Fundamental Texts for the New Republic: Constitutional experts will convene to revise the charter, incorporating public submissions. This includes protections for human rights, environmental safeguards for Madagascar’s biodiversity-rich ecosystems, and youth quotas in future governance.
Organizing a Constitutional Referendum and Elections: Culminating in a nationwide vote on the new framework by mid-2026, followed by “free and fair” polls recognized internationally. Randrianirina invited global observers, signaling openness to partnerships with the EU and AU for legitimacy.
The roadmap builds on his inaugural pledges to “restore Madagascar to its former glory” and tackle insecurity, with early actions including humanitarian aid distributions and infrastructure audits.
Reactions: Hope Tempered by Skepticism
The address resonated strongly with the youth activists who ignited the change. “This is our victory—a real chance to end elite capture,” said Andry Nirina, a 22-year-old organizer from the Gen Z movement, in an interview with local outlet Real TV Madagasikara. Protesters’ five core demands—Rajoelina’s resignation, democratic governance, basic needs access, anti-corruption resistance, and national dialogue—appear woven into the plan, fostering guarded enthusiasm.
Civil society groups, however, urged vigilance. Florent Rakotoarisoa, president of the High Constitutional Court, praised the “inclusive vision” but criticized international “coup” labels as overlooking local context. Economists note the stakes: Madagascar’s GDP per capita has halved since 1960, per World Bank figures, with inflation at 0.2% but extreme poverty at 20.8% under recent stabilization efforts.
Internationally, responses are mixed. Russia, whose flags waved during protests, has signaled “serious cooperation” via embassy talks, while the EU calls for “democratic values” through dialogue. Rajoelina, now in exile, condemned the transition as illegitimate, though his influence wanes.
Looking Ahead: Challenges in a Fragile Transition
As Madagascar navigates this pivotal moment, Randrianirina’s roadmap offers a blueprint for renewal—but implementation will test his resolve. With a transitional period capped at two years, the focus shifts to tangible wins: stabilizing utilities, curbing graft, and empowering the youth whose fervor toppled a regime. “We joyfully open a new chapter,” he concluded, echoing his October words. Whether this chapter endures remains the nation’s collective challenge.
This report was compiled from official statements, on-the-ground interviews, and verified sources. For updates, follow developments through the transitional government’s channels.
