Categories: News

Madagascar Coup Leader Appoints Businessman as New Prime Minister

Madagascar’s coup leader Colonel Michael Randrianirina has named businessman Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as the nation’s new prime minister.

Randrianirina who was sworn in as President on Friday seized power a few days before, in the wake of massive youth-led protests that forced out his predecessor.

The new leader said he appointed Rajaonarivelo as head of government due to his experience and “connection with international organisations that work with us.”

He replaces Ruphin Zafisambo, who was appointed by former president Andrey Rajoelina just two weeks ago.

Rajaonarivelo is a well-known figure in the Malagasy economic and financial ecosystem.

Prior to his appointment, he led BNI (Banque nationale de l’industrie), one of Madagascar’s main banks.

Former President Andry Rajoelina has condemned the army takeover of the country, and refused to step down while in exile.

Lawmakers impeached the ex-leader after he fled abroad over fear for his life.

The current upheaval of Madagascar’s political life is the result of a week’s long Gen Z-led movement that erupted in September.

Demonstrations started over water and power shortages and evolved into a broader protest against what was seen as failed leadership.

 

Montage Africa

Recent Posts

Malaria’s impact goes beyond recovery

ENTEBBE, Uganda, 27 October 2026 -/African Media Agency(AMA)/ - When nine-year-old James Ssemambo developed severe…

3 hours ago

SAP Empowers AI Developers to Build What Matters and Turn Intent into Autonomous Execution

International Space Station’s use of tabular AI and expanded partnerships demonstrate the art of the…

3 hours ago

Malaria vaccine price deal could save $50m and widen access

UNICEF says a conditional deal could lower the RTS,S malaria vaccine price by about 40%…

8 hours ago

Zambia’s economy grew 5.2% in 2025, AfDB report says

An African Development Bank report points to faster growth while warning that Zambia still faces…

8 hours ago

South Africa green-skills project maps jobs linked to clean energy

A partnership backed by a $1 million grant is mapping skills demand and planning local…

8 hours ago

AfDB approves $503.75m Botswana loan for energy relief and jobs

The financing is designed to cushion energy costs while supporting Botswana’s private-sector and jobs reforms.

8 hours ago