Colonel Randrianirina Assumes Presidency in Madagascar Following Military Coup

Colonel Michael Randrianirina has been sworn in as Madagascar's new president following a swift military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The ceremony took place at the High Constitutional Court, where Randrianirina, formerly the commander of the elite CAPSAT military unit, took the oath of office.

The coup was precipitated by three weeks of youth-led protests against the government, driven by grievances over frequent power outages, water shortages, and allegations of corruption. The unrest resulted in at least 22 deaths, according to United Nations reports.

Randrianirina announced that a military-led committee would govern alongside a transitional administration for up to two years before elections are held.

The United Nations and the African Union have condemned the military takeover. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for a return to constitutional order and the rule of law.

Madagascar has a history of political instability, with several coups and attempted coups since gaining independence in 1960. The country continues to grapple with widespread poverty, affecting approximately 75% of the population.