Madagascar’s Military Leader to Be Sworn in as President Amid Coup Crisis

Post by : Saif Nasser

Antananarivo, Madagascar – October 16, 2025 – Madagascar faces a major political crisis as its new military leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, announced he will be sworn in as president on Friday. This follows a coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina and has drawn strong reactions from the international community.

The Coup and New Leadership

Colonel Randrianirina declared that the High Constitutional Court would conduct the swearing-in ceremony. He said he would lead a transitional government for up to two years, after which new elections are expected to be held. In his statement, he confirmed that the military had dissolved all government institutions except the lower house of parliament, known as the National Assembly.

Randrianirina was previously a commander in the CAPSAT elite army unit, which played a major role in the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power. Last week, he broke ranks with Rajoelina and urged soldiers not to use force against protesters.

President Rajoelina’s Response

President Rajoelina condemned the military takeover and refused to step down, despite leaving the country temporarily during the weekend. His stance comes as young protesters, largely from the Gen Z generation, have taken to the streets demanding his resignation. Several security forces also defected from his side, increasing pressure on the former president.

African Union Suspends Madagascar

In response to the coup, the African Union (AU) suspended Madagascar’s membership immediately. The AU called for the restoration of civilian rule and urged the transitional government to hold elections as soon as possible. The suspension by the 55-member bloc could politically isolate Madagascar and affect its international relations.

Social and Economic Challenges

Madagascar faces serious social and economic problems. The country has a population of about 30 million, with nearly three-quarters living in poverty. The average age of its population is less than 20 years, making youth an important force in politics. The World Bank reports that Madagascar’s GDP per capita fell 45% between its independence in 1960 and 2020. Frequent power outages, water shortages, and lack of basic services have fueled public dissatisfaction and widespread protests.

Youth-Led Protests and Public Sentiment

The coup has been triggered in part by nationwide protests led by young people, demanding better governance and social services. The population’s frustration with poverty, unemployment, and government inefficiency has created an environment in which the military felt justified in stepping in. While Randrianirina promises stability through a transitional government, many citizens remain wary of military rule.

Looking Ahead

Colonel Randrianirina’s swearing-in as president marks the start of a critical two-year transition period. The international community, including the African Union, will closely monitor whether Madagascar returns to civilian-led governance. The military has promised elections at the end of this period, but political stability remains uncertain in a country struggling with poverty, youth unrest, and decades of economic decline.