(MENAFN) Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina on Monday appointed Ruphin Fortunat Dimbisoa Zafisambo as the nation’s new prime minister, just days after dissolving the previous government in response to widespread protests.

Rajoelina stressed the urgent need for a leader capable of restoring stability and rebuilding public confidence, highlighting that the new prime minister’s main responsibility will be to enhance living standards and drive forward the country’s essential goals.

Prior to this appointment, Zafisambo served as director of the military office at the Prime Minister's Office since 2021.

The government was disbanded on September 29 following intense demonstrations in major urban centers, including the capital Antananarivo. Protesters rallied against ongoing power outages and water shortages, with some clashes escalating into looting that inflicted heavy economic losses.

"Faced with the current instability that the country is experiencing, marked by frustration and anger caused by power and water cuts, I have heard the call of young people and I fully understand their concerns and frustrations," Rajoelina stated last week when announcing the government’s dissolution.

On Monday, reaffirming the new administration’s commitment, he declared the "absolute priority will be the restoration of electricity and water supplies within the shortest possible time," aiming to swiftly address the urgent needs of the population.

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