Madagascar’s interim president, Michael Randrianirina, has dissolved the country’s entire government and dismissed the prime minister in a sudden political move that has intensified uncertainty in the Indian Ocean island nation’s fragile transition period. The decision, announced through a statement from the presidency, effectively ends the tenure of the cabinet that had been formed shortly after Randrianirina assumed power following months of political unrest.
According to the official communication from the presidency, the government has ceased its functions with immediate effect, and the president will proceed to appoint a new prime minister in accordance with the country’s constitutional procedures. Until a new administration is formed, the day to day operations of ministries will be handled by the secretaries general within each department to ensure continuity of public services.
No formal explanation was provided for the decision to dismiss the entire cabinet, including former prime minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo. Political observers say the abrupt reshuffle represents the most significant shake up in Madagascar’s government since Randrianirina took office during a period of national upheaval late last year.
Randrianirina, a colonel in the Malagasy armed forces, rose to power in October 2025 after widespread protests forced former president Andry Rajoelina to flee the country. The demonstrations began in September as public frustration grew over persistent shortages of electricity and clean water, problems that had plagued the country for months. What started as youth led protests soon escalated into a broader nationwide movement demanding political change and government accountability.
Security forces attempted to suppress the demonstrations, but clashes between protesters and authorities resulted in several deaths and injuries. Amid the escalating crisis, the military intervened and eventually assumed control, with the High Constitutional Court endorsing the transitional leadership under Randrianirina.
After taking power, Randrianirina appointed Rajaonarivelo as prime minister in October in an attempt to establish a transitional civilian government alongside the military leadership. The move was presented as part of a broader effort to stabilise the country and initiate reforms aimed at restoring democratic governance.
However, the appointment was immediately criticised by several activist groups that had played a key role in mobilising the protests. Leaders of the youth driven Gen Z movement argued that the selection process lacked transparency and failed to involve meaningful consultation with civil society. According to the activists, the choice of prime minister did not reflect the structural political reforms demanded during the protests.
In recent days, pressure on the interim administration has intensified. Two activist coalitions known as the Gen Z and Gen Y movements reportedly issued a seventy two hour ultimatum calling for Randrianirina to resign, citing dissatisfaction with the pace of reforms and what they described as poor government performance.
The regional bloc Southern African Development Community has also been monitoring developments in Madagascar closely. Following the military takeover last year, the organisation urged the transitional authorities to present a clear roadmap for restoring constitutional order and holding democratic elections. The bloc had requested that plans for a transition timeline and electoral process be outlined by early 2026.
Randrianirina has previously indicated that the transitional administration intends to organise national elections within two years as part of a broader reform programme. The proposed transition process includes drafting a new constitution, conducting nationwide consultations and restructuring key state institutions before returning the country to full civilian rule.
Political analysts believe the dissolution of the government could signal an attempt by the interim leadership to reset the transition process and form a new administration that is more inclusive of civil society groups and political stakeholders. Others warn that the move may deepen uncertainty if it further delays the formation of a stable government.
Madagascar, one of the world’s poorest countries despite its vast natural resources and biodiversity, has experienced repeated cycles of political instability since gaining independence in 1960. Power struggles, contested elections and periodic military involvement in politics have frequently disrupted governance and economic development.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial for the country’s political trajectory as Randrianirina prepares to appoint a new prime minister and cabinet. Whether the reshuffle will ease political tensions or intensify demands for a faster return to democratic rule remains uncertain.
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