Military leader Randrianirina sworn in as Madagascar’s new president

Mass demonstrations in recent weeks over power and water shortages have killed more than 20 people.

Madagascar has sworn in an army colonel as president, just days after a military takeover on the back of a popular rebellion that sent President Andry Rajoelina fleeing into exile.

The African island nation’s High Constitutional Court on Friday formalised the appointment of Colonel Michael Randrianirina in a ceremony, crowning a tumultuous week in which Rajoelina was impeached for desertion of duty on Tuesday, with the military stepping in.

Mass demonstrations in recent weeks over power and water shortages turned deadly, with the United Nations reporting that at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 others were injured.

A large crowd gathered for the ceremony at the court Friday with representatives of a youth-led movement rubbing shoulders with politicians.

Foreign delegations, including from the United States, the European Union and the French ambassador, were also present, a journalist with the AFP news agency said.

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