Col. Michael Randrianirina, now Madagascar’s new military ruler, has risen from being an unknown army officer to the country’s most powerful man in just a few days.
His journey to power began when he led soldiers from the elite CAPSAT army unit into the streets of Antananarivo, joining thousands of protesters who demanded the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina. Soon after the president fled, parliament voted to impeach him, and the High Constitutional Court declared Randrianirina the new head of state.
Before this dramatic change, little was known about him. Born in Sevohipoty in the southern Androy region, Randrianirina once served as a regional governor and later led an infantry battalion. He had been jailed in late 2023 for allegedly plotting a coup but was released in early 2024. Now, only months later, he stands as Madagascar’s new military ruler.
Randrianirina has promised that the military will stay in power for up to two years before holding new elections. He insists this was not a coup but a “responsibility” to save a country “on the brink of collapse.” He says his government’s main goal is to improve social welfare and restore stability.
International reaction has been swift. The African Union suspended Madagascar after the takeover, calling it an unconstitutional change of power. The United Nations and several countries, including France and Germany, have also expressed concern and urged calm. UN Secretary-General António Guterres asked all Malagasy leaders to work together toward peace.
Despite the global criticism, many young people in Madagascar, especially those from the “Gen Z” protest movement, welcomed the change. Their protests began over water and electricity shortages but grew into a wider movement against corruption and poverty. About 75% of Madagascar’s population lives below the poverty line, making social reform a major demand.
Randrianirina, who prefers speaking in Malagasy instead of French, has said he wants the country to focus on independence and national pride. Whether his promises will bring stability or further turmoil remains to be seen. But for now, Madagascar’s new military ruler has become the central figure shaping the island nation’s uncertain future.
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