• Madagascar’s president dismissed the prime minister and dissolved the government.

• A new prime minister will be appointed under constitutional procedures.

• The move comes amid political pressure and economic uncertainty.

Madagascar’s president, Michaël Randrianirina, has dismissed Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo and dissolved the entire government, according to a statement released March 9 by presidential spokesperson Harry Rahajason.

The statement said the head of state will soon appoint a new prime minister in line with procedures set out in the Constitution. No official explanation was given for the decision.

However, local newspaper L’Express de Madagascar reported that members of youth movements Gen Y and Gen Z had called for the resignation of the prime minister and several ministers, accusing them of being ineffective.

According to the outlet, critics say the prime minister has not fully carried out his duties as head of the administration. The newspaper also reported that several ministers were struggling to manage their responsibilities.

The presidential statement added that, until a new government is formed, secretaries-general in each ministry will handle routine administrative affairs.

The decision comes one week after the government unveiled a national reform program outlining a roadmap for rebuilding the country’s institutions. The plan includes the organization of a presidential election scheduled for September 2027.

On October 17, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina was sworn in as president of the Refoundation, launching a transitional period aimed at reorganizing state institutions and preparing a return to constitutional order.

Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo had been appointed prime minister in October 2025, just days after Randrianirina took power following the October 14, 2025 coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina.

The coup followed several weeks of protests led by the youth collective Gen Z Madagascar. Demonstrators had mobilized over water and electricity shortages and worsening living conditions.

Political uncertainty has also raised economic concerns. S&P Global Ratings recently placed Madagascar’s sovereign rating of “B-/B” on negative watch, warning that political instability could affect economic growth and fiscal discipline.

The agency also lowered its growth forecast for 2025–2026 to about 3%, down from 4.1% previously.

Charlène N’dimon