Overview

In March1998, Malagasy voters approved a revised Constitution. The principal institutions of the Republic of Madagascar are a presidency, a parliament (National Assembly and Senate), a prime ministry and cabinet, and an independent judiciary. The president is elected by direct universal suffrage for a 5-year term, renewable twice.

The National Assembly consists of 160 representatives elected by direct vote every 5 years. The last election was held in December 2002. The Senate consists of 90 senators, two-thirds elected by local legislators and other Grand Electors and one-third appointed by the president, all for 6-year terms. A prime minister and council of ministers carries out day-to-day management of government. The president appoints the prime minister.

The prime minister and members of Parliament initiate legislation, and the government executes it. The president can dissolve the National Assembly. For its part, the National Assembly can pass a motion of censure and require the prime minister and council of ministers to step down. The Constitutional Court approves the constitutionality of new laws.

Territorial administration is to be determined by legislation. In an effort to decentralize administration, the Constitution calls for the six provinces (faritany) to become autonomous. The six provinces are Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Antsiranana, Toamasina, Fianarantsoa, and Toliary.

Chief of State and Cabinet Members (Last Updated: 2/14/03)

President: Ravalomanana, Marc
Prime Minister: Sylla, Jacques
Cabinet Members:
: Andriasandratriniony, Yvan - Min. of Agriculture & Animal Husbandry
: Razafindralambo, Vola Dieudonne, Dr. - Min. of Civil Service, Labor, & Social Laws
: Ralison, Alphonse - Min. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs
: Rakotoarivelo, Mamy - Min. of Communication
: Rahaingosoa, Odette - Min. of Culture
: Mamizara, Jules - Min. of Defense
: Radavidson, Andriamparany - Min. of Economy, Finance, & Budget
: Razaka, Elise Alitera - Min. of Energy & Mines
: Rabotoarison, Charles Sylvain, Gen. - Min. of Environment
: Ranjeva, Marcel, Gen. - Min. of Foreign Affairs
: Rasamindrakotroka, Andry - Min. of Higher Education
: Rajaona, David - Min. of Industry & Handicrafts
: Rambeloalijaona, Jean Seth - Min. of Interior
: Rajaonah, Alice - Min. of Justice
: Rodelys, Maharavo - Min. of Labor & Social Affairs
: Andriampanjava, Jacob Felicien - Min. of Population
: Razafinjatovo, Haja Nirina - Min. of Posts & Telecommunications
: Razafindrandriatsimaniry, Michel - Min. of Primary & Secondary Education
: Lahiniriko, Jean - Min. of Public Works
: Augustin, Amady, Gen - Min. of Public Security
: Edouard, Alidina - Min. of Scientific Research
: Blaise, Zoana - Min. of Technical & Professional Education
: Christian, Ntsay - Min. of Tourism
: Rakotovazaha, Olivier - Min. of Transport & Meteorology
: Reboza, Julien - Min. of Urban & Regional Planning
: Oneste, Alibay Jonshon - Min. of Waters & Forests
: Rene, Ndalana - Min. of Youth & Sports
: Esoavelomandroso, Monique Adreas - Sec. of State for Decentralization & Development of Autonomous Provinces
: Hippolyte, Rarison Ramaroson, RAdm. - Sec. of State for Fisheries & Ocean Resources

: Rakotonirainy, Henri - Sec. of State for Foreign Trade