Political Refounding: Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo Unveils a Strategic and Thoughtful Agenda

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

In a Malagasy political context marked by chronic instability and a succession of institutional crises, political reform appears an imperative to guarantee the country’s long-term stability. Since his appointment as Prime Minister, Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo has embodied this desire to break with a past characterized by repeated failures. The government’s recent presentation of a strategic calendar illustrates a prudent and thoughtful planning approach aimed at establishing political renewal in Madagascar. This 24-month plan, implemented within the framework of the General State Policy (PGE), is based on in-depth reflection, particularly regarding the legitimacy of institutions, electoral transparency, and national reconciliation. The fragile economic situation, exacerbated by social crises and a flawed vision of governance, demands a structured approach to prevent the recurrence of these crises from leading to more serious tensions. The caution displayed in this government strategy reflects the complexity of the challenge, where each step must foster the gradual consolidation of institutions while uniting all stakeholders.

A structured strategic roadmap for sustainable institutional reform

Discover the issues and objectives of the political reforms aimed at improving governance, strengthening democracy, and promoting citizen participation.

A broad public consultation: the cornerstone of the reform

The first part of this strategy is based on a six-month public consultation. This step is intended to be the foundation of the process’s legitimacy, relying on the active participation of all regions and social strata of the country. The approach aims to gather and synthesize the population’s expectations, fears, and proposals, while restoring trust in public institutions, often undermined by successive crises. The consultation will be organized through regional meetings, allowing for a better understanding of local realities and challenges. This represents a true political catharsis, capable of broadening the national consensus around key policy directions. The success of this step, essential for any lasting reform, will depend on the government’s ability to unite a wide range of stakeholders, including those from civil society organizations, diverse religious communities, and local economic actors.

This policy of open dialogue should serve as a lever to initiate a constructive process that could eliminate the gridlock and divisions stemming from electoral disputes or institutional challenges. Can we hope that it will constitute a real turning point, or will we remain trapped by partisan strategies? The answer will largely depend on the government’s ability to scrupulously respect the expressed expectations and to translate collective reflection into concrete actions.

Electoral and legislative reforms: strengthening the legitimacy of institutions

The core of the strategic plan hinges on holding a referendum on a new Constitution, scheduled between the 12th and 15th months. Seeking a national consensus, this step is fundamental to realizing political renewal, particularly by avoiding the recurrence of past institutional imbalances. The new Constitution must embody a refounding of the State, establishing a more resilient balance between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. If the majority of political and social actors agree on this overhaul, it could pave the way for a Fifth Republic designed for lasting stability and good governance. However, the success of this step requires broader support from diverse groups, which implies a colossal effort to convince the entire civil society and political parties.

Discover the challenges and prospects of political reforms aimed at improving governance and strengthening democracy.

2. How can we guarantee widespread approval of a new Constitution in a context of heightened distrust of institutions? The answer lies in transparency throughout the process, ongoing consultation, and raising awareness of the importance of this step for the country’s future. Fears of potential manipulation of the election or the exclusion of certain groups must be absolutely avoided in order to lay the foundations for a legitimate and consensual state.
3. Presidential elections and the peaceful transfer of power: challenges and strategies

Following the validation of the new Constitution, the presidential election must take place between the 15th and 18th months, marking the true step towards ending the institutional exception. The selection of the new head of state is a crucial step in realizing the political overhaul through exemplary democratic practices. Transparency, citizen participation, and adherence to the timetable will be key elements in legitimizing the process. The transfer of power must take place in accordance with democratic principles, without resorting to violence or intimidation.

Transfer of Power

6 months

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Peaceful transfer of power

Obstacles to the success of political reform and levers for overcoming them

Despite careful planning, several challenges remain to ensure the success of this transition. Widespread mistrust, fueled by a history of corruption, impunity, and foreign influence, constitutes a major obstacle. Indeed, certain actors close to the government or from the opposition could seek to destabilize the process to protect their interests. Combating impunity, particularly through the removal of corrupt officials and the fight against organized crime, is becoming a priority to restore the credibility of the process.

At the same time, international pressure, especially from the OIF (International Organisation of La Francophonie) and financial partners, must be leveraged to encourage strict adherence to the rules stemming from the commitments made. Transparency in the handling of sensitive issues, such as the recovery of ill-gotten gains or the fight against the exodus of influential leaders, is essential to lend credibility to the reform and avoid any resurgence of past crises.

Finally, adopting an inclusive communication plan, sensitive to the concerns of the various social groups, will help build a consensus-based dynamic. The ability to establish a sincere dialogue, while avoiding populism or manipulation, will be key to transforming this ambition into a tangible reality. The strategy must also aim to unite all stakeholders around a common project, ensuring they have a place in this shared vision of regeneration.

What are the key elements of the strategic roadmap for political reform in Madagascar?

The roadmap includes broad public consultation, electoral reform, a constitutional referendum, followed by presidential elections and a peaceful transfer of power, all spread over 24 months to ensure an orderly transition.

How can public consultation strengthen the legitimacy of the process?