Madagascar: Colonel Randianirina sworn in as president

Malagasy Colonel Michel Randianirina was sworn in as president of Madagascar on Friday, days after President Andry Rajoelina was ousted by the National Assembly and the military seized power.

In a speech before the Constitutional Court, Randianirina said that this day represents a historic turning point for the country, as the people are filled with enthusiasm, driven by a desire for change and a deep love for the homeland.

Randianirina spoke of opening a new page in the life of the Malagasy nation, expressing regret that after 65 years of independence, Madagascar remains among the poorest countries in the world.

He explained that these tragic conditions have awakened the awareness of a brave generation of young people, who hope for a better and safer future for themselves and for future generations.

He pointed out that this generation, which has suffered injustice, the plundering of its public resources, and corruption, and which is largely made up of Generation Z, has taken to the streets, supported by all Malagasy citizens, to demand the re-establishment of the nation and the resolution of recurring social and economic crises, particularly the constant water and electricity outages.

The fifty-year-old colonel criticized what he described as the authoritarian regime that plunged the country into darkness for many years, resorting to violence and human rights violations, pledging to work with all the nation’s vital forces to break with the past.

He affirmed his commitment to take all necessary measures against the enemies of the Republic, redress the harm suffered by victims during the recent popular movement, and ensure full enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression.

The new president called on representatives of foreign countries to accompany Madagascar in implementing and managing the national restructuring process.

Randianirina took the oath of office before the judges of the Supreme Constitutional Court at the court’s headquarters, after which he was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of the First Class, the country’s highest decoration, awarded only to heads of state.

His inauguration was attended by the ambassadors of France, Switzerland, and Germany, as well as a representative of the European Union. Vehicles bearing diplomatic license plates from the British and Chinese embassies were seen at the gate of the Constitutional Court.

The inauguration was also attended by figures including former Malagasy President Marc Ravalomanana and Rufin Zavisambo, whom Rajoelina appointed Prime Minister on October 6.

Randianirina entered the Constitutional Court building wearing civilian clothes, but he was in an armored vehicle, accompanied by armed and masked soldiers.

Some young people demonstrated this morning in front of the Constitutional Court, coinciding with the inauguration ceremony, calling on the new regime to continue to listen to the voice of the people.

The inauguration of Randianirina as Madagascar’s president marks a new phase in the country’s ongoing protests since the start of the Generation Z movement on September 25.

These protests led to President Andry Rajoelina’s departure from the country on October 12, followed by his formal removal two days later.