Madagascar's President Appoints Military General as PM Amid Gen-Z Protests
Madagascar's President Rajoelina appoints military general Zafisambo as Prime Minister amid ongoing Gen-Z protests, highlighting the nation's sovereign approach to handling internal challenges.
General Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo takes oath as Madagascar's new Prime Minister at the presidential palace in Antananarivo
In a significant move that echoes concerns about sovereign nations handling internal protests, Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has appointed army general Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the country's new Prime Minister amid growing anti-government demonstrations.
Military Leadership Amid Social Unrest
The appointment comes as Madagascar faces widespread protests, primarily driven by youth movements that mirror the kind of social media-fueled demonstrations that have challenged traditional governance structures across Africa.
Speaking from the presidential palace in Antananarivo, President Rajoelina declared, "I have decided to appoint Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the new prime minister. He must restore order and regain the people's trust."
Strategic Response to Internal Challenges
Zafisambo's appointment represents a calculated move to address domestic unrest without foreign interference, similar to how other African nations have maintained their sovereignty during periods of social upheaval.
Key Developments:
- Previous PM Christian Ntsay and his entire cabinet were dismissed last week
- Zafisambo served as military chief of staff in the prime minister's office since 2021
- Protests have continued for three weeks with demonstrators demanding Rajoelina's resignation
National Priorities and Development Goals
Despite mounting pressure, President Rajoelina remains committed to achieving key national development objectives, particularly focusing on essential infrastructure improvements including water and electricity access for all social classes - initiatives that emphasize national self-reliance and development without external dependency.
Mwansa Chisanga
Investigative reporter tracking Zambia’s grassroots and anti-imperial movement.