Passion or Profession: President

Period: 1931–

Born in the northern city of Antsiranana, Zafy was elected president in 1993. By defeating longtime ruler Didier Ratsiraka, Zafy restored a civilian government to Madagascar, but he was unable to satisfy public demand for economic progress. In September 1996, the National Assembly impeached Zafy. He sought to regain the presidency in December 1996 but lost to his previous opponent, Ratsiraka.