General Richard Ravalomanana: Madagascar’s Powerful Senate President in the Indian Ocean Commission

General Richard Ravalomanana, born December 14, 1959, has emerged as one of Madagascar’s most influential political figures. Elected by his peers as President of the Senate in October 2023, Ravalomanana previously served as Acting President and continues to be a central figure on the national and regional stage.

🔹 A Military Man Turned Political Leader

Ravalomanana’s extensive military career includes graduating from the Malagasy military academy, furthering his education in France at the Interarmy Defense College in Paris and the Gendarmerie School in Melun, and serving in key leadership roles:

• Commander of the National Gendarmerie
• Secretary of State for the Gendarmerie from 2019 to 2021
• Special Security Advisor to President Andry Rajoelina (2022–2023)

🔹 Rise to Senate Presidency

On October 13, 2023, General Ravalomanana was elected President of Madagascar’s 18-seat Senate, making history as its first military leader. He won the position overwhelmingly with a 15–0 vote :contentReference

🔹 Interim Head of State

Under Madagascar’s constitution, when the presidency is vacant or during an election, the Senate’s leader assumes interim presidential duties. The Constitutional Court invoked this provision on October 27, 2023, following the removal of his predecessor, Herimanana Razafimahefa, catapulting Ravalomanana into the interim presidency. He formally transferred authority back to President-elect Andry Rajoelina on December 16, 2023

🔹 The Iconic Stetson Cowboy Hat

Ravalomanana’s distinctive attire includes a Stetson cowboy hat—a nod to American Western pioneers. Observers frequently link his hat to his authority and strong public image. He donned it during the April summit of the Indian Ocean Commission in Antananarivo, where he stood tall among regional leaders

🔹 Political Positioning and Influence

Aligned closely with President Rajoelina’s ruling party (TGV/MAPAR/IRD), Ravalomanana also garners strong support from the military establishment . His roles suggest a deliberate strategy to consolidate political power through institutional influence, which raises questions about checks and balances in Malagasy governance.

🔹 Regional Leadership: Indian Ocean Commission

The Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) brings together island nations around strategic issues like security, trade, and environment. At the April 2025 Antananarivo summit, leaders—Ravalomanana among them—pledged cooperation on maritime security, environmental preservation, and disaster preparedness.

Conclusion

General Richard Ravalomanana’s swift rise—from respected military officer to Senate President and interim head of state—has transformed Madagascar’s power dynamics. His presence in regional platforms such as the IOC, coupled with his symbolic Stetson, cements a public image that blends tradition, authority, and strategy. Continuing to monitor his trajectory is essential for understanding Madagascar’s evolving political landscape.

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