Antananarivo, Madagascar – Just a day after leading a dramatic military coup, Colonel Michael Randrianirina has been sworn in as Madagascar’s new president, marking a seismic shift in the nation’s political landscape.
The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Constitutional Court in the capital, Antananarivo, before a large crowd of cheering supporters.
The court’s declaration followed the ousting of President Andry Rajoelina, who fled the country amidst days of intense street protests and mounting pressure from both civilians and sections of the military.
“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,” Randrianirina declared shortly after taking the oath of office.
He dismissed claims of unconstitutional action, instead blaming the country’s own constitution for contributing to political instability.
Who Is Randrianirina?
Until recently, Michael Randrianirina was a relatively unknown figure to the public. Born in 1974 in Sevohipoty, a village in the southern Androy region, he has quickly risen to become the most powerful person in Madagascar and the entire world.
His dramatic ascent began on Saturday, October 7, when, as head of the elite CAPSAT army unit, he led his troops into central Antananarivo to join thousands of protesters demanding Rajoelina’s resignation.
Hours later, after the president had fled and parliament voted to impeach him, Randrianirina stood before the vacant presidential palace and announced to the world that the military had taken control.
The Constitutional Court later confirmed him as the new president, although Rajoelina continues to insist he remains the legitimate leader.
A career marked by mystery
Despite now leading the country, little is publicly known about Randrianirina. He served as Governor of Androy between 2016 and 2018 under then-President Hery Rajaonarimampianina, and later headed an infantry battalion in Toliara until 2022.
Randrianirina has long been a vocal critic of President Rajoelina, a former DJ-turned-entrepreneur who came to power via a military coup in 2009, left office in 2013, and returned through elections in 2018.
In November 2023, Randrianirina was arrested and imprisoned in a maximum-security facility on charges of inciting a revolt and plotting a coup.
However, many believed the charges were politically motivated.
Support from student movements, politicians, and fellow military officers led to his release in February 2024, though he remained under surveillance.
Randrianirina gave an interview to the BBC in which he described himself as a “servant of the people,” showing humility and calm resolve rather than aggression or ego.
