Madagascar’s President Andriy Rajoelina has appointed army general Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the country’s new prime minister, a week after dissolving his cabinet amid mounting nationwide protests.
Zafisambo, who hails from the administrative corps, studied at the Antsirabe Military Academy in 1991 before undergoing further training in France, according to French broadcaster RFI.
The demonstrations, now in their third week, were sparked by widespread frustration over prolonged electricity and water cuts. The protests, led mostly by students and youthful activists, continued on Monday as security forces used tear gas to disperse crowds.
Calls for the president to resign have been growing louder, with demonstrators accusing his administration of failing to address worsening living conditions.
In a speech on Saturday, Rajoelina said he was ready to listen but ignored demands to step down. “I am ready to listen,” he said, accusing his opponents of attempting to overthrow his government.
During a meeting with members of civil society on Monday, Rajoelina ruled out seeking a third term in office.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
About the Author
