Madagascar Court Approves New Constitution Referendum

Madagascar’s highest court gave the go-ahead on Wednesday for a referendum on a new constitution before presidential elections pledged by the government that took power after last year’s military coup.

The administration, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, said it would hold elections within 24 months of ousting President Andry Rajoelina in October 2025 after weeks of protests.

A date for the poll on the Indian Ocean island has not been set.

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Madagascar President Appoints Anti-Corruption Chief as PM — Colonel Michael Randrianirina signs documents at the high constitutional court after being sworn in as president in Antananarivo, Madagascar, October 17, 2025 [Brian Inganga/AP Photo]

“Holding a referendum on changing the constitution before the presidential election is not contrary to constitutional provisions,” the High Constitutional Court (HCC) said.

Various options for a new constitution have been discussed including a shift to a federal state, which appears popular among younger people behind the “Gen Z” protests that led to Rajoelina’s ousting last year.

Another option that has been raised is for a “strongly decentralised” state.

The current constitution was approved in a referendum in 2010 following the overthrow of President Marc Ravalomanana after protests led by Rajoelina.

Author

Jimisayo Opanuga

Jimisayo Opanuga is a web writer in the Digital Department at News Central TV, where she covers African and international stories. Her reporting focuses on social issues, health, justice, and the environment, alongside general-interest news. She is passionate about telling stories that inform the public and give voice to underreported communities.