Mahamasina stadium was packed yesterday during celebrations of the 66th anniversary of Independence and the creation of the Armed Forces. The Refoundation regime's first major popular test was passed with flying colors at Mahamasina stadium. Placed under the banner of national cohesion, the 66th anniversary of Independence and Armed Forces creation drew an immense crowd, sealing a moment of national communion despite poor weather. Would the Refoundation regime, installed since October 2025, succeed in mobilizing and organizing for its first June 26? The question fueled salon discussions and political circles for weeks. Verdict: Mahamasina stadium was packed. From dawn, a human tide rushed toward the stands, leaving thousands disappointed at the stadium gates due to lack of available seats. A popular fervor demonstrating Tananarivians' sustained interest in the national holiday. Another striking feature of the day was the official tribune. The celebration was truly placed under the seal of unity. The notable presence of political actors from all sides, church leaders, civil society leaders, and representatives of international partners gave the event a strong dimension of national reconciliation. The republican ritual began at 10:30 sharp after the solemn sound of traditional 21 cannon shots from Anatirova heights, making the Mahamasina basin vibrate. Brigadier General Heritiana Daniel Rakotoarimanana, Chief of Staff of the Army, commanded the troops. For his baptism of fire as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Head of State, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina reviewed the troops. The military parade mobilized some 3,800 elements from various defense and security forces. Beyond the impeccable marching, the major attraction of this 2026 edition lies in the presentation of new cutting-edge equipment and tactical materials recently acquired. These acquisitions, fruits of strengthened bilateral cooperation with the island's strategic partners, illustrate the government's determination to modernize territorial security, particularly in combating rural insecurity. The second part of the morning gave way to youthful energy. Hundreds of high school students and members of capital associations took to the field for a dynamic choreographic show, retracing the nation's history and celebrating the cultural diversity of the six provinces. Culturally, the presidential directive was widely followed. In the stands and in the corners, the public massively wore the "lambahoany," traditional outfits from regions or accessories in national colors (white, red, green). By choosing to trade Western suits for typically Malagasy clothing, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina left a mark of identity pride that will be remembered. The regime must now transform this popular communion into concrete socio-economic victories in the months ahead.