Randrianirina Sworn In as Madagascar’s President After Youth-Led Protests

Colonel Michael Randrianirina has been inaugurated as Madagascar's new president after a military coup and protests organized by the youth compelled President Andry Rajoelina to go into exile. His appointment was legitimized by the Constitutional Court after Rajoelina was impeached on charges of desertion of duty. Weeks of violent protests over water and power shortages killed at least 22 and more than 100 were wounded, and the CAPSAT unit refused to shoot demonstrators and supported the revolt. Randrianirina promised broad changes, a new constitution, and elections in 18–24 months. International powers expressed unease, but demonstrators celebrated the change as a triumph for youth-led revolution.