Madagascar’s president orders polygraph for aspiring ministers

Lie Detector Tests for Ministerial Applicants

Madagascar's military leader, President Michael Randrianirina, announced on Thursday that applicants for ministerial positions in the new government will be subjected to lie detector tests. This measure is intended to screen for corruption and is considered rare and unprecedented.

The government has acquired a polygraph machine and a specialist to operate it. Candidates who do not pass the test will not be allowed to proceed to an interview stage. Those who pass will then meet with the president and the prime minister.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who leads an elite army unit, assumed power in October following the removal of President Andry Rajoelina after prolonged protests. The protests were driven by young citizens demanding better economic opportunities. The military leader dismissed the entire Cabinet and appointed a new prime minister, with a commitment to conduct elections within two years.

Based on reporting by Africanews.