Madagascar's president appoints new prime minister

ANTANANARIVO -- President of Madagascar Andry Rajoelina on Monday appointed Ruphin Fortunat Dimbisoa Zafisambo as the country's new prime minister, a week after the government was dissolved amid mass protests.

The new prime minister must be "capable of restoring order and regaining the people's trust," Rajoelina said, adding that his main task will be to improve people's living conditions and advance the nation's key priorities.

Before his appointment, Zafisambo had served as director of the military office at the Prime Minister's Office since 2021.

The dissolution of the government was announced on Sept 29, following days of protests in major cities across the country, including the capital Antananarivo, over frequent power outages and water shortages. Some demonstrations turned violent, with incidents of looting causing significant economic damage.

"Faced with the current instability that the country is experiencing, marked by frustration and anger caused by power and water cuts, I have heard the call of young people and I fully understand their concerns and frustrations," Rajoelina said last week when announcing the government's dissolution.

While affirming that the new government's goal is to "meet the people's aspirations," Rajoelina said Monday that "its absolute priority will be the restoration of electricity and water supplies within the shortest possible time."