Madagascar’s military-led government has appointed a new cabinet following the ouster of the army leader and former president Andry Rajoelina. The new cabinet, announced on October 28, 2025, is primarily composed of civilian ministers, including several prominent critics of the deposed president. Only four of the 29 cabinet members are military or paramilitary officers, assigned to key security-related ministries such as the armed forces, public security, land management, and the gendarmerie.
The transitional president, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, took power after a military coup earlier in October 2025, triggered by weeks of protests led by the “Gen Z” youth movement demanding action against worsening social and economic conditions, including chronic power and water shortages. Following President Rajoelina fleeing the country, Randrianirina was sworn in as interim president and announced a military-led transitional government expected to rule for up to two years until elections can be organized.
The cabinet is led by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo and includes notable appointments such as Christine Razanamahasoa as foreign minister and Fanirisoa Ernaivo, an exiled Rajoelina critic, as justice minister. The government has pledged to implement a “national renewal policy” focused on addressing social emergencies and reviving key economic sectors amid ongoing political turmoil. The appointments have sparked skepticism among protest leaders and observers who question whether the new government will meet the demands of the population for real reform and improved governance.
The political upheaval has also affected Madagascar’s economic outlook, with credit ratings downgraded and growth forecasts lowered due to instability and uncertainty. Regional bodies including the African Union have suspended Madagascar and called for a swift return to constitutional order through inclusive dialogue. The transitional government faces the significant challenge of balancing military control with civilian leadership while responding to urgent national crises
