By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Madagascar’s President Michael Randrianirina has announced that anyone seeking to serve as a minister in the country’s new government will be required to undergo a lie detector (polygraph) test as part of efforts to identify and eliminate corrupt officials.
Randrianirina, who seized power in a military coup in October, said on Thursday that Madagascar has already acquired a polygraph machine along with a trained specialist to operate it in the screening process for prospective cabinet members.
“We will know who is corrupt and who can help us,” Randrianirina said. “We are not looking for someone who is 100% clean, but someone who is more than 60% clean.”
Polygraph Tests to Screen Government Ministers
The Malagasy leader explained that the polygraph test will serve as the first stage of the selection process for new government officials.
“After taking the polygraph test, candidates who fail will not proceed to an interview,” Randrianirina told reporters.
“Those who pass the polygraph test will have an interview with me and the Prime Minister.”
The move is part of Randrianirina’s broader plan to reform government institutions and tackle corruption in the Indian Ocean island nation.
Coup Followed Widespread Public Discontent
Randrianirina, a colonel in an elite army unit, came to power after overthrowing former President Andry Rajoelina during a weeks-long uprising led largely by young Madagascans frustrated with poor public services and limited economic opportunities.
Madagascar, which has a population of about 32 million people, continues to struggle with widespread poverty and economic challenges.
Cabinet Dissolved as New Government Forms
In a major political shake-up, Randrianirina last week dismissed the entire Cabinet and dissolved the government as part of the restructuring process.
He later appointed a new Prime Minister on Sunday, who will work alongside him to form a fresh administration.
Promise of Elections Within Two Years
Despite taking power through a coup, Randrianirina has pledged to restore democratic governance in Madagascar.
He said his administration plans to organize national elections within two years of assuming power.
