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Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina was inaugurated as Madagascar’s president on Friday, just days following a military coup that forced former president Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.
Randrianirina, who commanded the CAPSAT army unit that revolted and aligned with anti-government demonstrators over the weekend, recited the presidential oath during a ceremony at the highest court in the capital city of Antananarivo, as observed by AFP reporters.
“Today marks a historic turning point for our country. With a people in full fervour, driven by the desire for change and a deep love for their homeland, we joyfully open a new chapter in the life of our nation,” Randrianirina said.
The event, led by the president of the constitutional court, was attended by military officials, politicians, members of the Gen Z youth-led protest movement, and several foreign delegations, including representatives from the United States, the European Union, Russia, and France.
“We will work hand in hand with all the driving forces of the nation to draft a fine constitution… and to agree on new electoral laws for the organisation of elections and referendums,” he said, thanking the youth for spearheading the protests that ousted Rajoelina.
