Colonel Michael Randrianirina is set to be sworn in as Madagascar’s transitional president, following a military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The new leadership announced that Randrianirina would assume office during a formal hearing of the High Constitutional Court on October 17.

Rajoelina, who fled abroad after being impeached by lawmakers, condemned the takeover but refused to resign despite growing protests led by youth movements, labour unions, and civic groups demanding better governance and economic opportunities. Randrianirina, a former critic of Rajoelina and leader of the rebellion through his elite CAPSAT unit, joined protesters and seized power after weeks of demonstrations against corruption, poor services, and widespread poverty.

The colonel pledged to hold elections within two years. In response, the African Union suspended Madagascar, and the United Nations expressed serious concern over the unconstitutional change of power.