President William Ruto arrives at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo for Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebrations, Friday, June 26, 2026. /PCS
President William Ruto was among the heads of state and government who attended Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebrations on Friday.
The ceremony was held at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo, commemorating the island nation's secession from France in 1960.
Festivities were marked by traditional military and civil parades and cultural performances as the country's red, white, and green flags decorated homes and public buildings across the island.
Ruto's visit was the highlight of the celebrations as it was the first official visit to Madagascar by a Kenyan head of state.
This year, the national holiday is taking place amid significant political developments, including recent youth-led protests over governance and basic services.
Demonstrations over systemic water and electricity shortages, corruption, and the high cost of living escalated into a military coup in October 2025, forcing President Andry Rajoelina into exile.
Following the takeover, military ruler Colonel Michael Randrianirina assumed the presidency.
President William Ruto arrives at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo for Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebrations, Friday, June 26, 2026. /PCS
President William Ruto is received by state officials on arrival at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo for Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebrations, Friday, June 26, 2026. /PCS
Malagasy wave national flags at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo as they mark Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebrations, Friday, June 26, 2026. /PCS
Military march and parade at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo during Madagascar's 66th Independence Day celebrations, Friday, June 26, 2026. /PCS
Malagasy led by their leaders and visiting dignitaries observe respect during the singing of Madagascar's national anthem as country marked 66th independence at Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo, June 26, 2026. /PCS
Malagasy in their numbers attending Madagascar's 66th independence ceremony at the Barea Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo, Friday, June 26, 2026. /PCS
