Madagascar's Military President Implements Lie Detector Tests for New Ministers

Madagascar's military leader, President Michael Randrianirina, has announced that all candidates applying to become ministers in his new government will be required to undergo lie detector tests. This initiative aims to identify and eliminate corrupt individuals from the government. Randrianirina, who assumed power following a coup in October 2023, stated that the country has acquired a polygraph machine and a specialist to conduct these tests. He emphasized the need for integrity among government officials, declaring, "We will know who is corrupt and who can help us." Candidates who fail the polygraph will not be interviewed, while those who pass will meet with Randrianirina and the newly appointed Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison.

Madagascar's president orders lie detector tests for candidates applying to be government ministersThe Guardian

Randrianirina's rise to power followed significant unrest in Madagascar, where youth-led protests erupted against the previous administration of President Andry Rajoelina. These protests, driven by frustrations over inadequate government services and widespread poverty, resulted in at least 22 fatalities in their initial days. The military, particularly the elite unit Capsat, supported the protests, leading to Rajoelina's departure from the country. Randrianirina's administration has since promised to hold new elections by late 2027.

The Guardian

Despite Randrianirina's assurances, many young people in Madagascar remain skeptical of his government. Critics, including members of the "Gen Z Madagascar" movement, have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of lie detector tests, with one activist stating, “It’s not even scientifically proven to work. For me it’s just a joke and embarrassing.” This skepticism is compounded by concerns that Randrianirina's cabinet appointments may still reflect the old, corrupt elite, undermining the very change the youth sought.

The Guardian

Madagascar is one of the poorest countries globally, with a GDP per capita of just $545 in 2024, according to World Bank data. The island nation is rich in natural resources, including vanilla and precious gems, which have historically been exploited by corrupt officials and businesspeople. The country ranked 148 out of 180 in Transparency International's 2025 corruption perceptions index, highlighting the significant challenges that Randrianirina's administration faces in combating corruption.

The GuardianMadagascar's president orders lie detector tests for candidates applying to be government ministers

Randrianirina has reiterated his commitment to reform, stating, “We’re not looking for someone who is 100% clean, but over 60%. That way, Madagascar will finally be able to develop.” As the new cabinet is set to be announced soon, the effectiveness of these measures and the government's ability to address the concerns of the youth remain to be seen.

Madagascar's president orders lie detector tests for candidates applying to be government ministers

• “We will know who is corrupt and who can help us,” — Michael Randrianirina, President of Madagascar

Madagascar's president orders lie detector tests for candidates applying to be government ministers

• “We’re not looking for someone who is 100% clean, but over 60%. That way, Madagascar will finally be able to develop.” — Michael Randrianirina, President of Madagascar

The Guardian

• “It’s not even scientifically proven to work,” — Gen Z Madagascar activist

The Guardian