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The appointment of Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo comes just a week after President Andry Rajoelina dismissed his cabinet amid mounting street protests.
A member of Madagascar’s administrative corps, Zafisambo trained at the Antsirabe Military Academy in 1991 before pursuing further military studies in France, according to French broadcaster RFI.
The demonstrations — now entering their third week — were sparked by widespread anger over prolonged electricity and water shortages. Led largely by students and young activists, the protests have continued to grow in scale and intensity.
On Monday, demonstrators once again filled the streets, facing tear gas and heavy police presence. Calls for President Rajoelina’s resignation have grown increasingly vocal.
In a national address on Saturday, Rajoelina said he was “ready to listen” but dismissed demands for his resignation, accusing political rivals of attempting to overthrow his government.
Meeting with civil society representatives on Monday, the president reaffirmed that he would not seek a third term in office.
