Over 80 percent of Madagascar's 32 million residents live below the poverty line, sparking widespread discontent. Colonel Michael Randrianirina assumed the presidency on October 17, 2025, amid a rapid power shift. This event underscores persistent political turbulence in the region.
Background of the Political Shift
Protests erupted on September 25, 2025, driven by severe shortages of electricity and water. Demonstrators, mainly young people, clashed with security forces, resulting in at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, as reported by the United Nations.
The turning point came on October 11 when the elite CAPSAT unit refused to fire on crowds. This move emboldened the movement and weakened the government's hold. According to Al Jazeera, the unit's stance shifted the uprising's momentum.
Former President Andry Rajoelina fled on October 12 aboard a French plane to Reunion, then to Dubai, citing threats to his life. His aides condemned the process as unlawful.
On October 14, Randrianirina announced the armed forces' control from a public square in Antananarivo. The High Constitutional Court impeached Rajoelina the next day for abandoning duties.
Madagascar has faced multiple coups since independence in 1960, including in 1972 and 2009. This latest aligns with similar transitions in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger since 2020.
Profile of Colonel Michael Randrianirina
Born in 1973 or 1974 in southern Madagascar's Androy region, Randrianirina trained at the Antsirabe Military Academy. He rose to command an infantry battalion in Toliara before leading CAPSAT in 2022.
He served as Androy's governor from 2016 to 2018 under a prior administration. Over time, he emerged as a critic of Rajoelina's policies.
In 2023, authorities arrested him for alleged mutiny and coup plotting, leading to a suspended sentence. Released in February 2024, he resumed his CAPSAT role, per Wikipedia details.
During the protests, Randrianirina urged soldiers to avoid repressing citizens and called for resignations. His actions positioned him as a key figure in the takeover.
Key Statements from Randrianirina
Randrianirina emphasized civilian governance in his new role. He stated that the change followed legal paths and rejected coup labels, according to Sputnik reports.
International and Domestic Reactions
The African Union suspended Madagascar's membership, urging a return to civilian rule. They plan a fact-finding mission alongside the Southern African Development Community.
The United Nations condemned the military intervention as undemocratic. Foreign envoys from the US, EU, and France attended the swearing-in, signaling cautious engagement.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for civilian inclusion in the transition. He noted the need to address youth demands for lasting peace, as covered by Al Jazeera.
Domestically, protest leaders welcomed the shift but seek involvement in governance. Rajoelina's supporters argue he remains the rightful leader.
Future Outlook and Plans
Randrianirina pledged elections within 18 to 24 months. He aims to form a transitional council mixing military and civilian members.
Consultations continue to select a consensus prime minister. The focus includes addressing public grievances like infrastructure failures.
He dissolved several institutions but kept the National Assembly active. A new government will prioritize stability and reforms.
According to Deutsche Welle, the takeover highlights youth influence in political change. Analysts watch for economic impacts on this resource-rich yet impoverished nation.
This development reflects broader trends in African governance, where military steps in amid civilian unrest. It provides insights into balancing stability with democratic aspirations for policymakers and observers.
