New Madagascar technocrat government seeks stability

Antananarivo (AFP) - The new prime minister of Madagascar announced a cabinet of technocrats and relative political unknowns on Friday in a bid to renew international support and move on from the country's chronic instability.

"These ministers represent all the forces of our nation, meaning that I have put in place an open government," said new Prime Minister Roger Kolo.

Among the 31 ministers announced, there were two members of the MAPAR party of former strongman Andry Rajoelina, who seized power in 2009 and only stepped down in January.

Even though it is the biggest party in parliament, most MAPAR members have refused to join the government after the President Hery Rajaonarimampianina, elected in December, refused their choice for prime minister.

Rajaonarimampianina opted to appoint Kolo, a little-known 70-year-old doctor, as part of his efforts to repair relations with international investors and donors who cut off aid after the 2009 coup.

He is also keen to tempt back the tourists put off by five years of instability on the island, which is renowned for its natural beauty.

"I reaffirm that we must carry out economic and social development as a priority," Rajaonarimampianina told the new cabinet. "We will fight against poverty -- the people need results."

The appointments were welcomed by the European Union, which has been sharply critical of the unstable political situation in the country in recent years.

"This important step marks the return of constitutional order to the country and marks the departure point to the consolidation of democracy, a state of rights, good governance and political stability which Madagascar needs," the EU's foreign representatives said in a statement.