Corruption fight is key policy – Madagascar’s interim leader
Madagascar’s government has made the fight against corruption a central pillar of its political program, stressing that years of mismanagement must be reversed, the country’s interim president, Michael Randrianirina, has said.
In an exclusive interview with RT, he stated that the authorities intend to bring to justice all officials responsible for the systematic plundering of state funds, adding that the new leadership must set an example for ethical governance.
“This fight is one of the key areas of our policy,” Randrianirina said. “Everyone who has been robbing and ruining the country for many years will be brought to justice… From now on, it is unacceptable to plunder the country’s funds.”
Commenting on the recent protests organized by young activists from Generation Z, Randrianirina said the government is working to address their demands “as soon as possible.”
He announced the formation of a youth parliament and noted preparations had begun for a national dialogue, which will allow young people and other stakeholders “to openly express their expectations and demands.”
Despite the country’s current vulnerability, Randrianirina said authorities are implementing measures to solve the key issues in the energy and water sectors.
Asked whether Madagascar intends to deepen cooperation with Russia, Randrianirina emphasized the country is “open to cooperation with everyone.” The authorities, he said, are studying which sectors could deliver the greatest benefits to the Malagasy people and accelerate economic progress.
In September, protests over rising costs and chronic power cuts gripped Madagascar for weeks before army units sided with the demonstrators. The unrest led to the impeachment of the former president, Andry Rajoelina, and the appointment of an interim government.
On October 14, Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as interim leader at the High Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, taking office before a large crowd amid expectations that the new authorities would restore stability.
