He was born in Antsiranana, Diana Region He founded and led the Asa Vita no Ifampitsarana (Judged By Your Work) Party, which opposed President Didier Ratsiraka.

On 28 May 1996, when the prime minister was deposed by Parliament in a no confidence vote, Zafy appointed Ratsirahonana to the post.

A presidential election was held on 3 November 1996, in which Ratsirahonana ran, taking fourth place (behind Ratsiraka, Zafy and Herizo Razafimahaleo) and 10.14% of the vote.

Ratsirahonana became Chairman of the National Executive Committee of the Panorama Group opposition coalition in September 1997.

[7] Amidst the 2009 political crisis, when the military announced that it was installing opposition leader Andry Rajoelina as head of state on 17 March 2009, Ratsirahonana was present as master of ceremonies.