Ntsay government training: a dilemma?

The composition of Christian Ntsay’s new government remains shrouded in mystery. More than a week after his re-election as prime minister, ministerial appointments are yet to come.

The usual consultations or interviews have not yet begun. The Prime Minister is currently on a national tour and the President of the Republic, Andry Rajoelina, is preparing to fly abroad to attend the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on July 26. The explanation received was that they were giving themselves time to think about putting the right people in the right positions.

After more than six years in power, the Prime Minister has never changed, and we certainly do not expect any surprises in the new government. Seven of the ministers appointed in January 2024 were elected to the National Assembly, but some will certainly have to return to ministerial positions.

The birth of the new government remains difficult for Christian Ntsay and Andry Rajoelina. We recall that the President of the Republic announced the appointment of at least 10 Secretaries of State during the formation of the Government on January 14. The call for applications was then launched in February. The President of the Republic mentioned that a large number of documents had been received, but to date, no appointments have been made, with the exception of the return of Gérard Andriamanohisoa to the post of Secretary of State in charge of the new Urban and Housing Affairs. It is planned to appoint a Secretary of State for Rural Electrification and the Family, a Secretary of State for Family Planning, a Secretary of State for Youth and Anti-Drug, a Secretary of State for Crafts, a Secretary of State for Food Sovereignty, a Secretary of State for Digital Public Services, a Secretary of State for Commerce and Consumption, a Secretary of State for Poverty Eradication and Reintegration and a Secretary of State for the Economy and Planning.

The criteria set by Andry Rajoelina for appointing members of the government should not change. He previously mentioned loyalty, integrity, honesty and competence in choosing collaborators. However, the government formation process could lead to renewed divisions within the president’s coalition.