Colonel Michaël Randrianirina has taken his stance against personality cults even further. After declaring shortly after taking power that he did not need his portrait hung in administrative offices, during a weekend tour in Toamasina, he emphasized that it was unnecessary to thank him for his actions. "It is our duty, we are here to work, there is no need to say 'Thank You President'," he stated. He is the first leader who understands he is in office to serve, not to be served. Colonel Randrianirina explained to the population that the State only uses taxpayers' money collected through taxes. "It is your money we use to build development infrastructure. We can do better, but we must end tax evasion."
This clarification is significant. It ends an old tradition inherited from the socialist era when President Ratsiraka was "the respected and beloved president of the people." His portrait hung in every office. And people owed him everything. His tours responded to the population's demands wherever he went. Roads, bridges, schools, health centers, salary increases, bonuses for medal-winning athletes... The president was literally providence and took advantage of it to make poverty his business through donations of food and utensils. Dependency and begging fostered this submission and idolatry of leaders. After a break with Professor Albert Zafy, allegiance and flattery returned in full force. Marc Ravalomanana perpetuated the practice without changing anything, giving his private jet to athletes during the 2003 Island Games in Mauritius, just as Ratsiraka had put his personal plane at the disposal of the national football team to play in Zimbabwe. Andry Rajoelina intensified the abuse by giving the impression of giving from his own pocket while distributing donations from donors and international organizations, who were willing participants.
It is the proper use of State funds and good governance that are the main beneficiaries of this clarification. Until now, the use of State money, public procurement, and respect for public accounting principles have been going in all directions. This reflects the projection of the Head of State's discourse. For once, we can rightly say "Thank You, Mr. President." Thank you for reminding us of the role of elected officials and leaders. Thank you for ending the cult of personality. Thank you for putting the administration back on track. Thank you simply for reminding us of the fundamentals of good governance.
The Egyptians were received by President al-Sisi after the World Cup, but he did not give a single penny to the players. The French are decorated with the Legion of Honor if they are champions. The president should not concern himself with tasks assigned to ministries and federations. Otherwise, a government serves no purpose. Elementary.