A storm in a teacup. What is happening at the National Tourism Office of Madagascar (ONTM) to suddenly land it in the headlines? For years, this institution has operated quietly, as the appointments of the Chairman and Board members were handled internally. Its status protects it from public administration interference, although it naturally maintains close ties with the Ministry of Tourism.
The appointment of a new executive director seems to have ignited the powder keg. Known for being very close to the former regime, he was elected to the position despite the Ministry of Tourism’s directives. Is this an unforgivable sin? He is not the only one in this situation. Many officials from successive regimes have seen their careers revived through providential appointments.
However, there may be more behind this reluctance. The executive director holds the signing authority for ONTM initiatives and essentially holds the purse strings. It is the position, rather than the individual’s profile, that carries weight. The former executive director was known for his strict adherence to rules and statutes. His dismissal was contested by a large portion of the staff, who were stunned by this unprecedented situation. Employees are deeply concerned about the future of the Office, which plays a crucial role in tourism development.
Whether one likes it or not, this situation exposes the ONTM to an unfamiliar image. There has always been an imaginary line between the Ministry and the ONTM. They coexist, but each in their own sphere: the ONTM focuses on the private sector, while the Ministry designs and implements government tourism policy. This incident regarding the appointment of the executive director violates the ‘gentleman’s agreement’ between the two institutions.
How will this be resolved? In truth, the Ministry’s actions are perceived by ONTM members as government interference in a private structure governed by official statutes. Will the ONTM yield, or will the State persist in imposing its chosen candidate? In either case, tourism gains nothing. Time is being wasted on disputes that should not be occurring, instead of building a coherent development plan for the sector. There is certainly much more to be done than occupying newspaper columns over a controversial appointment.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-28 05:38:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/tourisme-textuel.html