ANTANANARIVO — Madagascar’s interim leadership has announced plans to subject prospective cabinet ministers to lie detector tests as part of a new vetting process aimed at tackling corruption and restoring public trust.
Interim President Michael Randrianirina said candidates for the new cabinet will undergo polygraph testing before final appointments are made, with the line-up expected to be unveiled next week.
“We have decided to use a polygraph for integrity checks,” he told local media, adding that the process would help identify individuals fit to serve in government.
Push for integrity in government
Randrianirina, who dismissed the previous cabinet without public explanation about 10 days ago, said the new screening system is intended to root out corruption and ensure loyalty to the country’s reform agenda.
“We will know who is corrupt and who can help us,” he said, framing the move as part of efforts to rebuild confidence in leadership following months of political upheaval.
Political transition after protests
The interim leader came to power in October 2025 after mass protests driven by water and electricity shortages forced former president Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.
Randrianirina, whose military unit backed the protest movement, has since pledged to organise elections by late 2027.
New leadership taking shape
He is working alongside newly appointed Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison, who assumed office on March 15, to form a new government.
Only candidates who pass the polygraph tests will be considered for cabinet positions, according to the president.
In a candid remark, Randrianirina suggested the administration is aiming for pragmatic standards rather than perfection.
“We are not looking for someone who is 100 percent clean, but at least 60 percent,” he said, expressing hope that the approach would help set Madagascar on a path to stability and development.
