By Mevlut Ozkan and Sandra Rabearisoa
ISTANBUL (AA) - Madagascar's interim President Col. Michael Randrianirina has appointed Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo the nation's prime minister, an official said Monday, according to French-language media.
The official made the announcement in an official ceremony, though no further details were given.
President Randrianirina was sworn in as president on Friday following weeks of anti-government protests against ousted President Andry Rajoelina.
Youth-led protests erupted on Sept. 25 over severe water and electricity shortages, as well as allegations of corruption, quickly escalating into calls for Rajoelina’s resignation.
There are reports Rajoelina was evacuated to France on a military plane after reaching a deal with President Emmanuel Macron.
Last Tuesday an elite military unit led by Randrianirina entered the presidential palace in the capital Antananarivo and declared they had taken power.
The country’s High Constitutional Court has called on Randrianirina to hold elections within 60 days, citing the Constitution, which requires a presidential election within 30 to 60 days after the court declares the office vacant.
It said Rajoelina cannot fulfill his duties as he is not in the country.