Just days ago, most people in Madagascar barely knew his name. Now, Colonel Michael Randrianirina has gone from relative obscurity to the country’s new military ruler and sworn-in president — after a whirlwind power shift fuelled by Gen Z-led protests.
A Swift Seizure of Power
As head of the elite CAPSAT military unit, Randrianirina drove into the heart of the capital last Saturday with his troops and joined thousands of demonstrators demanding President Andry Rajoelina’s removal. When Rajoelina fled and parliament voted to impeach him, Randrianirina appeared outside the presidential palace and declared the military was taking over. The Constitutional Court quickly confirmed him as interim leader, even though the ousted president still claims authority.
A Mysterious Background
Despite his new prominence, surprisingly little is known about the 51-year-old officer:
- Born in 1974 in Sevohipoty, in the Androy region
- Served as governor of Androy (2016–2018)
- Led an infantry battalion in Toliara until 2022
- Known critic of Andry Rajoelina, who himself came to power via a 2009 coup
In November 2023, Randrianirina was jailed without trial, accused of plotting a coup and inciting mutiny. He spent time in a maximum-security prison known for housing violent criminals. Student groups, soldiers, and political figures claimed he was jailed for political reasons, and he was released in February 2024.
Faith, Patriotism, and Defiance
Those who know him describe him as patriotic, disciplined, and deeply Christian. He is outspoken about Madagascar’s lingering ties to France and rejects the automatic use of French during interviews, preferring Malagasy.
He casts himself as “a servant of the people” and has been described as modest but firm, confident without arrogance.
The Gen Z Connection
The protests that paved his path to power were led largely by frustrated young people angry over chronic electricity and water shortages. When he joined them, he told the crowds the military would form a transitional government and hold elections within two years.
Transforming from Soldier to Statesman
At his swearing-in ceremony, he traded fatigues for a suit, presidential sash, and star of office. He pledged:
- to draft a new constitution
- to reform governance systems
- to prioritise human rights and national unity
- to repair the systems behind public anger
Almost immediately after taking the oath, he announced an investigation into Jirama, the state water and electricity company.
Looking Ahead
Randrianirina has promised a civilian-military transition lasting up to two years before elections. His agenda stresses:
- social welfare
- reform of broken institutions
- tackling poverty (which affects three-quarters of the population)
- distancing from old colonial influence
In a few extraordinary days, a man once imprisoned and largely unknown has stepped into the presidential palace — backed by protesters, soldiers, and a call for change. The nation now watches to see whether his leadership brings reform, restoration, or renewed turmoil.
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