President Rajoelina – Latest News, Context and Analysis

When following President Rajoelina, the current head of state of Madagascar known for his rapid rise from business to politics and his controversial reforms. Also known as Andry Rajoelina, he has shaped the island’s political landscape since 2009.

Madagascar itself, Madagascar, an island nation off the southeast coast of Africa with a fragile economy and diverse ecosystems, has swung between stability and upheaval under his leadership. Poverty rates remain high, infrastructure gaps widen, and the reliance on mining exports creates vulnerability to global price shifts. These structural issues frame every policy decision and make the president’s moves matter far beyond the capital.

The political crisis, the series of protests, constitutional disputes and international sanctions that flared after the 2023 election highlighted tensions between youth activists and entrenched elites. President Rajoelina encompasses this political crisis, and the crisis in turn requires careful negotiation with the judiciary and the military. While supporters argue the protests show a vibrant democracy, critics see a pattern of power consolidation that undermines institutional checks.

Economic reforms, economic reforms, policies aimed at attracting foreign investment, modernising the tax system and expanding the tourism sector, sit at the core of his agenda. Foreign direct investment rose by about 12% in 2022, and new tax incentives have lured several mining firms. Yet the gains have not trickled down to ordinary households, and debt levels climbed to 68% of GDP by early 2024. President Rajoelina therefore requires a balance between growth targets and social equity.

Youth mobilisation is another pillar of his rule. By branding his base as the "young generation" he has tapped into high unemployment and a desire for change. Programs that promise tech training and entrepreneurship have attracted thousands, but opponents claim these initiatives serve more as political tools than sustainable job creators. At the same time, environmental policy has gained visibility, with new protected areas announced to preserve the island’s unique biodiversity, though enforcement remains inconsistent.

Internationally, the president’s actions have drawn both cooperation and criticism. The African Union, the European Union and several UN agencies have offered aid packages tied to governance reforms, while the United States and France have issued statements urging transparent elections. This mix of support and pressure means that each policy shift by President Rajoelina reverberates through diplomatic channels, influencing aid flows and trade agreements.

Below you’ll find a curated list of recent stories that dive deeper into these themes – from election updates and protest coverage to analyses of economic data and youth‑led initiatives. Use this collection to stay informed about how President Rajoelina’s decisions shape Madagascar’s present and future.