Less than five months after taking office, the "President of the Refoundation," Colonel Michaël Randrianirina , surprised everyone on Monday, March 9, by announcing the immediate suspension of the government. This abrupt reshuffle dismissed Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo , without the presidency deeming it necessary to justify the dismissal.

A political twist

This decision comes in a still fragile transitional climate. Having taken office on October 17th after his unit (the Capsat) joined a massive popular protest, the 52-year-old colonel seems intent on regaining control over an executive branch deemed too close to the old elites.

1. The context: The previous regime of Andry Rajoelina had collapsed following the "Gen Z" protests, initially triggered by the energy crisis (water and electricity).
2. The reaction from the street: Elliot Randriamandrato, spokesperson for the Gen Z collective, expressed his doubts to AFP: "We fear the beginning of the militarization of the regime." While the initial choice of ministers disappointed young people, the current lack of consultation is even more worrying.

The timetable for the "Refounding"

The head of state has outlined a two-year roadmap to stabilize the country:

Period	Event planned
End of 2026	National consultations for electoral reform have ended.
May - July 2027	Referendum on a new Constitution.
End of 2027	Presidential election.

Antananarivo: An electoral earthquake

Alongside this reshuffle, the Council of State annulled the results of the municipal elections in the capital. Harilala Ramanantsoa's victory (pro-Rajoelina) was invalidated following accusations of fraud made by Tojo Ravalomanana. The strategic position of mayor of Antananarivo will be the subject of a new election, the date of which has yet to be determined.

A "comprehensive" diplomacy

On the international stage, Colonel Randrianirina is playing a balancing act:

1. Moscow (February): Meeting with Vladimir Putin to seal a "new era of cooperation".
2. Paris (March): Meeting with Emmanuel Macron for a “renewed and balanced” partnership.

Note: This diplomatic diversification strategy marks a break with the traditional alignment of the Great Island, as the country seeks support to finance its transition.