Politics & Government Guide · MadagascarPolitics & Government Guide in Madagascar
Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions
Madagascar is currently under military-led transitional governance following a coup d'état in October 2025 that removed President Andry Rajoelina. Colonel Michael Randrianirina leads the transitional government with a mandate to establish a new constitutional framework through inclusive multisectoral consultations, with elections planned within 18-24 months. The country faces significant political instability and international scrutiny regarding the unconstitutional change of government.
Press Freedom
Moderate
Government Type
Semi-presidential republic
Legal System
Civil law system based on French legal traditions
Head of State
President Colonel Michael Randrianirina(since 2025)
Head of Government
Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison(Independent)since 2026
Political Indicators
Press Freedom
Scale: 0-100
Problematic
Reporters Without Borders (2024)
Legislature
Major Political Parties
Center
Opposition coalition
Voting Rights
All citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote in presidential, legislative, and local elections. The president is elected by majority vote through a two-round system. Legislative elections determine the composition of the National Assembly.
Recent Developments
- Military coup d'état on October 14, 2025, led by CAPSAT unit; President Andry Rajoelina fled the country and was impeached
- Colonel Michael Randrianirina sworn in as president on October 17, 2025, designated as 'president of refoundation'
- Mamitiana Rajaonarison appointed as Prime Minister on March 15, 2026
- Transitional government announced nationwide consultation led by FFKM to build new governance system, with referendum and presidential election planned within two years
- African Union suspended Madagascar for unconstitutional change of government; SADC dispatched fact-finding mission in December 2025
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