The military parade represents the pinnacle of independence celebrations. The Refoundation of the Republic government adhered to tradition, but opted for a classic parade format for this inaugural event at Barea Stadium. The Head of State, accompanied by military leaders during the troop review yesterday at Mahamasina, signaled a return to fundamentals.
General Ely Razafitombo, Minister of Armed Forces, announced this in an interview published Wednesday. The Refoundation authorities wanted the military parade to be "a return to roots, with strict adherence to military ceremony." This directive was evident in the parade held at Barea Stadium, Mahamasina, yesterday. The parade returned to a more classical format, entirely orchestrated by military music without additional effects. The tone was set from Colonel Michaël Randrianirina's arrival as Head of State—a low-key entrance. After greeting senior military officials, he stood before the Armed Forces banner for the national anthem, played by the military band.
The Iavoloha resident then conducted the troop review on foot, despite a command car being prepared for him as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The decision to walk may have been security-related. A double security cordon surrounded him during the review, with several armed personnel carrying assault rifles. The on-foot circuit also facilitated the security apparatus's movement.
The troop review, accompanied by military fanfare, maintained a martial tone. With stern expression, upright posture, and fixed gaze, Colonel Randrianirina, dressed in traditional silk ensemble and lamba, resumed his superior officer bearing. He had no public interaction during the review until reaching his seat in the armored glass-enclosed honor tribune.
The parade commenced at 10:38 a.m. Over two hours, more than 3,300 personnel, including 2,900 on foot, paraded before spectators under General Heritiana Rakotoharimanana, Chief of Staff of the Army. The extended duration reflected the return to the classic 120 paces-per-minute cadence.
The lengthy passage and cold weather dampened public enthusiasm. Even the rapid-pace march of elite intervention units from the army, gendarmerie, and police failed to energize the atmosphere. Each year, this represents the parade's main highlight. The classical format governed troop arrangement, with distinct passage times for each Defense and Security Force component, except for special forces' trotting display.
Yesterday's parade showcased new military equipment for the first time, including tactical reconnaissance drones. One of two new tanks donated by Russia also participated, along with new engineering regiment vehicles and trucks. However, the two Mi-8 helicopters, also Russian gifts, were notably absent.
"This is a ceremony programmed to the minute, reflecting the discipline and commitment of all Armed Forces elements," General Razafitombo stated. Nevertheless, some irregularities occurred. The ceremony was scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. with the Head of State's arrival, but he entered at 10:13 a.m. Protocol timing also overlapped with cultural entertainment preceding the ceremony. A scheduled choir performance coincided with the presidential arrival, preventing their performance. Additionally, several spectators remained queued at stadium entrances after the parade had begun.