An army colonel who led a lightning-fast coup takes over as Madagascar's president

Col. Michael Randrianirina arrives at the high constitutional court to be sworn in as President in Antananarivo, Madagascar, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/ Brian Inganga)

Col. Michael Randrianirina delivers his speech at the high constitutional court after being sworn in as president in Antananarivo, Madagascar, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/ Brian Inganga)

Soldiers loyal to Col. Michael Randrianirina guard the entrance of the high constitutional court in Antananarivo, Madagascar, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)

Madagascar High Constitutional Court judges congratulates Col. Michael Randrianirina, sworn in as president, at the main chamber of the nation’s High Constitutional Court, in Antananarivo, Madagascar, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)

Ramatoa