Madagascar’s newly installed military-led government appointed a cabinet on Tuesday that is largely made up of civilian ministers—including some well-known critics of recently ousted President Andry Rajoelina.
The formation of the cabinet marks a special moment in the island nation’s power shift. The military, having seized control this month, is now attempting to consolidate authority while addressing long-standing economic hardship and political divisions.
The cabinet under Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo comprises 25 civilians and four military or paramilitary officers.
Among the notable appointments: Christine Razanamahasoa, previously removed as president of the National Assembly by Rajoelina’s party, was named foreign minister. Exile-based Rajoelina opponent Fanirisoa Ernaivo was selected as justice minister. Economics professor Hery Ramiarison became finance minister. Ministers with military or security backgrounds took charge of the armed forces, public security, land planning and the national gendarmerie.
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Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who assumed the role of interim president only days after troops forced Andry Rajoelina from power, has outlined a transitional roadmap that places the military firmly at the center of governance. He said a ruling committee dominated by senior armed forces officials will oversee national affairs for as long as two years while political institutions are reshaped and preparations are made for fresh elections. According to authorities, the temporary arrangement is meant to restore stability and prevent further unrest, though there are speculations that say the extended timeline risks entrenching military influence instead of steering the country swiftly back to civilian leadership.
The incoming government faces major pressures: the protests that toppled Rajoelina were driven by chronic water and power shortages. The economy has lagged for decades; World Bank data show per-capita output nearly halved between 1960 and 2020. No immediate reactions came from protest leaders to the new cabinet appointments. Rajoelina, who fled the country and was later impeached by parliament, has condemned the takeover but remains in self-imposed exile. He has also been stripped of his citizenship.
Meanwhile, international bodies such as the African Union have suspended Madagascar’s membership in light of the coup, signaling potential external pressure ahead.