Madagascar’s elite army commander, Michael Randrianirina, has officially assumed office as the country’s new president following the ouster of Andry Rajoelina.
Trumpets blared and swords were raised as Randrianirina took the oath of office, marking a dramatic shift in leadership for the Indian Ocean nation.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the constitutional court, the same institution he had earlier suspended after seizing power.
Rajoelina, whom Randrianirina once protected, was impeached by lawmakers earlier this week after he fled the country amid escalating anti-government protests.
His departure came as sections of the military defected to join demonstrators demanding his resignation.
The African Union has denounced the power shift and suspended Madagascar from the bloc, while the United Nations has also condemned the military takeover.
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In the early days of the unrest, the UN reported that at least 22 people were killed — a figure the Malagasy authorities disputed.
Taking his oath, Randrianirina declared: “I will fully, completely, and justly fulfil the high responsibilities of my position as president of the Republic of Madagascar. I swear that I will exercise the power entrusted to me and dedicate all my strength to defending and strengthening national unity and human rights.”
The CAPSAT unit, which Randrianirina commands, had been instrumental in backing Rajoelina during the 2009 coup that first brought him to power. Rajoelina went on to win the 2018 presidential election, complete his term, and secure re-election in 2023.
Randrianirina has announced that the military intends to govern alongside a transitional administration for up to two years before new elections are held.
However, the constitutional court has directed that polls be conducted within 60 days as required by law.
