The President of Madagascar, Didier Ratsiraka, has named a new prime minister to replace the outgoing premier, Pascal Rakotomavo.

The new prime minister, Tantley Andrianarivo, was deputy to the former prime minister, who resigned under state decree on Wednesday, following legislative elections in May.

Eighteen ministers of the previous government also handed in their resignations earlier this month.

The announcemt of a full cabinet is expected soon.