Madagascar's President Michael Randrianirina speaks during the presentation ceremony of the new government at the presidential palace in Antananarivo, Madagascar, March 25, 2026. Madagascar's presidency announced Wednesday evening the appointment of a new government, tasked with strengthening social stability and combating corruption. (Photo by Sitraka Rajaonarison/Xinhua)

ANTANANARIVO, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Madagascar's presidency announced Wednesday evening the appointment of a new government, tasked with strengthening social stability and combating corruption.

The new government comprises 30 members, of whom 17 members have previously served in the government led by former Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo. The majority are civilians, along with a military officer, a police officer, and two gendarmes.

During the presentation ceremony of the new government, Madagascar's President Michael Randrianirina reminded the new ministers that the Malagasy people expect them to ensure continuity of previously initiated actions while adopting measures to meet new challenges.

According to Randrianirina, the new government's priority is to improve citizens' living conditions, with a focus on food security, essential services, energy, and public safety.

He also warned that any failure or act of corruption would result in "immediate resignation" and legal proceedings.

Randrianirina stressed the need to continue the reconstruction of Madagascar's eastern region and to put in place measures to mitigate the potential repercussions of the situation in the Middle East.

The new government's formation follows the appointment of Mamitiana Rajaonarison as prime minister on March 15, who had served as director general of Madagascar's Financial Intelligent Unit, a national entity in charge of the fight against money laundering and terrorism funding. ■

This photo taken on March 25, 2026 shows members of the new government at the presidential palace in Antananarivo, Madagascar. Madagascar's presidency announced Wednesday evening the appointment of a new government, tasked with strengthening social stability and combating corruption. (Photo by Sitraka Rajaonarison/Xinhua)