ministry rejects tourism director nomination
the tourism ministry publicly disagreed with the ONTM's choice for interim executive director.
The Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts has publicly rejected the Office National du Tourisme de Madagascar's (ONTM) appointment of Jean-Marc Razakazafy as interim executive director. The ONTM's board announced the nomination on October 26, stating it aimed to revitalize the office, but the ministry stated it had not approved the decision. This disagreement follows the departure of former director Danny Barivelo on October 21.
The ONTM board said its activities and partner commitments would continue normally despite the leadership change. However, the ministry expressed reservations about Razakazafy's candidacy even before the announcement. The ministry emphasized that leadership changes must adhere to good governance and the principles of 'Refondation'. Razakazafy previously served as a permanent mission officer in former President Andry Rajoelina's cabinet, a parliamentary advisor, and a technical advisor in the Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons.
Both the ONTM and the ministry invoked the 'Refondation' policy to support their opposing stances on the nomination. The ONTM maintains Razakazafy's appointment, while the ministry has not offered its support. The situation leaves the ONTM's operational capacity in question, with its interim director's legitimacy challenged by its own supervising ministry.
Why it mattersThe public disagreement between the Ministry of Tourism and the ONTM over a key appointment creates uncertainty for the tourism sector's leadership and operations.