In brief
Col Michael Randrianirina has officially taken office as Madagascar's new president after a military coup. He acknowledged the significant contribution of Gen Z activists in the protests that led to former President Andry Rajoelina's ousting. Facing a complex transition, Randrianirina promised reforms and elections within two years while emphasizing unity and addressing critical issues like water and power shortages. The future of Madagascar's political trajectory remains uncertain but carries a cautious optimism under new leadership.
Col Michael Randrianirina has been sworn in as the new president of Madagascar days after a military takeover on the Indian Ocean nation.
He swapped his fatigues for a suit and thanked the young people who took to the streets for weeks of protests that prompted President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country and led to his impeachment.
The ceremony took place at the Constitutional Court in the capital, Antananarivo, where a large crowd gathered to watch - including those who spearheaded the demonstrations.
Today marks a historic turning-point for our country. With a people in full fervour, driven by the desire for change... we joyfully open a new chapter in the life of our nation, he said.
The former French colony now enters a transition period, which will be full of political obstacles and legal uncertainty - though there is cautious optimism about Col Randrianirina's leadership.
He told the Gen Z demonstrators he was taking power and that the military would form a government and hold elections within two years.
Pro-democracy advocates, both inside and outside the country, hope that this promise will be fulfilled.
During the ceremony, Randrianirina vowed to dedicate all his strength to defending and strengthening national unity and human rights, emphasizing a commitment to reform Madagascar's governance.
He outlined top priorities including an assessment of the state-owned water and power company, Jirama, focusing on the urgent need for improvements in infrastructure that have fueled discontent among citizens.
