Madagascar president rejects social media pressure on cabinet changes
Colonel Michaël Randrianirina stated he will not dismiss ministers based on online criticism, asserting his authority.
President Colonel Michaël Randrianirina declared he will not yield to social media pressure to remove government members. He specifically stated that the Minister of Water and Sanitation would retain her position without needing re-evaluation. This stance comes amid online criticism, particularly on Facebook, following an incident involving 11 Chinese nationals who left prison irregularly.
The president addressed the issue after a journalist questioned him about a minister implicated in a controversial case. He emphasized that decisions would not be made under Facebook's influence, noting an ongoing investigation. The case involves the Minister of Justice, Fanirisoa Ernaivo, whose name was mentioned by the secretary-general of the prison administration union, who is currently in Dubai and claims the minister gave him instructions regarding the detainees' release.
Minister Fanirisoa Ernaivo denies the accusations and suggests a network is involved in these operations. In contrast, President Randrianirina publicly praised the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Minosoa Elia Razafindraniaina, stating her position is secure. Online commentators have drawn parallels to past leaders who dismissed social media criticism, recalling how platforms like Facebook were instrumental in mobilizing protests that led to regime changes.
Why it mattersPresident Randrianirina's decisions on government appointments and his response to public opinion on social media directly affect the administration and its officials.