Col Michael Randrianirina has been sworn in as the new president of Madagascar days after a military takeover of the Indian Ocean nation.
He swapped his fatigues for a suit and expressed gratitude to the young people who took to the streets for weeks of protests that prompted President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country and led to his impeachment.
The ceremony took place at the Constitutional Court in the capital, Antananarivo, where a large crowd gathered to witness the event - including those who spearheaded the demonstrations.
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, he stated.
Madagascar now enters a transition period filled with political challenges and legal uncertainties, though there is cautious optimism surrounding Col Randrianirina's leadership.
He criticized the international portrayal of events in Madagascar as a coup, insisting there had been no constitutional violations and maintaining that the constitution contributed to the country's turmoil.
The protests, initiated by a youth movement known as Gen Z Mada, were triggered by ongoing power and water shortages, and they hoped for a smooth transition following Rajoelina's resignation.
Col Randrianirina, who was previously in charge of Madagascar's elite CAPSAT army unit, promised to establish a military government and conduct elections within two years. He committed to reviewing the state-owned water and power company, Jirama, and prioritizing agricultural reforms, especially in rice farming.
Additionally, he suggested fostering closer ties with Russia, a significant shift for the former French colony that may reshape international relations moving forward.
