Madagascar's military president, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, dissolved the entire government on Monday, March 9, 2026, dismissing Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo and all cabinet ministers. A spokesperson for the presidency announced that the government has ceased its functions, and ministry secretaries-general will manage routine operations until a new cabinet is formed.

Randrianirina stated he would soon appoint a new prime minister in accordance with the constitution. "The President will shortly proceed with the appointment of a new Prime Minister, following the procedures set out by the constitution," said Harry Laurent Rahajason, director of communication for the presidency. No specific reason was provided for the dissolution.

The move comes amid ongoing political tensions in the Indian Ocean island nation. Randrianirina, commander of an elite army unit, seized power in October 2025 following weeks of youth-led protests known as the Gen Z movement. The demonstrations, sparked by chronic power and water shortages, escalated into deadly unrest that forced then-President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country. Parliament impeached Rajoelina, and Randrianirina was sworn in as president on October 17, 2025.

Rajaonarivelo, the dismissed prime minister, had been appointed in October 2025, shortly after Randrianirina took control. He previously served in Rajoelina's government. Youth activist groups, including Gen Z and Gen Y movements that helped propel Randrianirina to power, criticized the appointment as non-transparent and lacking consultation. Local media reported that these groups issued a 72-hour ultimatum for Randrianirina's resignation due to frustration over his administration's performance.

In December 2025, the Southern African Development Community directed Madagascar's military authorities to submit a roadmap for restoring democracy, including plans for elections by the end of February 2026. It remains unclear if elections have taken place or if the dissolution relates to these pressures. No immediate reports of new protests followed Monday's announcement.

Randrianirina has pledged to hold elections within two years of taking power. The sudden shake-up underscores the fragility of Madagascar's transitional government, which has faced challenges including economic woes and demands for greater inclusivity from youth movements.