Michael Randrianirina

Michael Randrianirina is the military leader of Madagascar, having seized power in a coup in October 2025 following youth-led protests. He is currently newsworthy due to a series of recent actions and events. Randrianirina recently dissolved his cabinet and dismissed the prime minister without explanation, later appointing the country's anticorruption chief as the new prime minister. He has also decreed that all prospective ministers must undergo lie detector tests to combat corruption. Furthermore, his regime received military equipment from Russia and launched a radio program promoting cooperation with Russia. During his leadership, Cyclone Gezani caused significant devastation in Madagascar, resulting in numerous deaths and displacement. These events highlight the political instability and challenges facing Madagascar under Randrianirina's rule.