Madagascar’s transitional leader Michael Randrianirina has appointed Mamitiana Rajaonarison, head of the country’s financial intelligence unit, as the new prime minister just days after dissolving the government.
In a statement released on Sunday, the presidency announced that Rajaonarison would lead a newly formed cabinet following the unexpected dismissal of the previous administration. Rajaonarison has served as the director of SAMIFIN, Madagascar’s anti-money-laundering agency, since 2021.
A former senior officer in the national gendarmerie and a longtime civil administrator, Rajaonarison replaces Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, who was removed from office last week when the cabinet was abruptly dissolved.
Rajaonarivelo had been appointed shortly after Randrianirina assumed power in October amid widespread protests that forced former president Andry Rajoelina to leave the country.
During a ceremony at the presidential palace in Antananarivo, Randrianirina said the country required decisive leadership during a challenging political period. He described Rajaonarison as a figure of integrity who “cannot be bought with money.”
Randrianirina has rejected claims that his rise to power constituted a coup, insisting that authority was legally transferred to him through the High Constitutional Court of Madagascar.
The transitional leader has outlined a two-year political transition that includes nationwide consultations, the drafting of a new constitution, and presidential elections planned for 2027.
Political analysts say the sudden removal of the previous prime minister came as a surprise. However, some observers believe increasing pressure for reforms and the influence of youth-led protest movements may have played a role in the decision to reshuffle the government.
The appointment of Rajaonarison is expected to shape the next phase of Madagascar’s transitional administration as the country seeks to stabilise its political institutions and prepare for future elections.
