(MENAFN) On Monday, Madagascar's interim President Col. Michael Randrianirina appointed Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as the nation's new prime minister during a formal ceremony held at the Iavoloha State Palace.

Randrianirina stated that Rajaonarivelo's appointment came after a recommendation from the members of the National Assembly.

"He was chosen for his skills, experience, and relationships with international organizations," he added.

Rajaonarivelo replaces Zafisambo Ruphin Fortunat, who had been appointed by the former President Andry Rajoelina on October 6, following the dissolution of the government on September 29.

A relatively unknown political figure, Rajaonarivelo has held numerous senior roles in the private sector, including serving as the former chairman of the board at BNI Madagascar Bank.

He holds a master's degree in industrial economics and business economics and has worked as an international consultant for several organizations, including the World Bank, the EU, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community, and the Indian Ocean Commission.

Rajaonarivelo also led the Malagasy Employers' Association and played a key role in developing various projects backed by international partners to support the Malagasy government.

President Randrianirina assumed office on Friday after weeks of protests against the former President Rajoelina's administration.

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