Madagascar's military president has announced that all candidates for government minister positions must pass lie detector tests to combat corruption. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who seized power in October, says the country has obtained polygraph equipment and an operator to screen potential officials.
ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar — The military leader of Madagascar announced Thursday that prospective government ministers must undergo polygraph testing as part of an anti-corruption screening process.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who assumed control of the Indian Ocean nation following an October coup, revealed that Madagascar has obtained lie detector equipment and trained personnel to evaluate potential cabinet members.
“We will know who is corrupt and who can help us,” Randrianirina stated. “We are not looking for someone who is 100% clean, but someone who is more than 60% clean.”
The military officer led the overthrow of President Andry Rajoelina after weeks of demonstrations last year, primarily driven by young citizens angry about inadequate public services and limited opportunities in the poverty-stricken country of approximately 32 million people.
Last week, Randrianirina dismissed his complete cabinet and disbanded the government structure. He named a new prime minister this past Sunday.
“After taking the polygraph test, candidates who fail will not proceed to an interview,” Randrianirina explained to media representatives. “Those who pass the polygraph test will have an interview with me and the prime minister.”
The military leader has committed to conducting fresh elections within two years of assuming power.
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