Madagascar: Military leader sacks cabinet in surprise move

Madagascar’s military leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, has unexpectedly dissolved the country’s government, dismissing Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo and the entire cabinet on March 9, 2026.

A statement from the presidency confirmed the suspension of duties but provided no official reason for the sudden move.

Permanent secretaries have been assigned to manage daily ministerial operations until a new administration is formed, which Randrianirina promised would occur “shortly” in accordance with constitutional procedures.

This political shake-up follows growing pressure from the youth-led Gen Z and Gen Y movements, whose massive protests over water and power shortages originally helped Randrianirina seize power from former President Andry Rajoelina in October 2025.

These activist groups had recently issued a 72-hour ultimatum demanding the leader’s resignation, citing deep frustration with his performance and the inclusion of political elites from the previous regime in his administration.

The movements criticised the now-dismissed Prime Minister’s appointment as non-transparent and sought greater representation in the transition process.

The dissolution marks a critical juncture for the Indian Ocean island nation as it navigates a precarious transition toward promised elections in 2027.

Since taking control, Randrianirina’s military-led government has faced scrutiny from international bodies like the African Union, which suspended Madagascar’s membership following the ouster of Rajoelina.

While the leader has vowed to reform the nation’s socioeconomic and political systems, this latest move reflects the ongoing instability and the difficult balance between military authority and the demands of the grassroots movements that sparked the revolution.