18 Dec 2025

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Madagascar’s journey toward peace, stability, and democratic governance.

In a virtual Extraordinary Summit held in Gaborone on December 17, the region’s leaders among them President Advocate Duma Boko outlined a plan to facilitate national dialogue, electoral processes, and political reconciliation following civil unrest in Madagascar on September 25.

Reading a communiqué on key decisions, SADC Executive Secretary, Mr Ellias Magosi said the summit received a report from the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation chairperson, Mr Peter Mutharika.

The report details findings from a technical fact-finding mission to Madagascar conducted from October 19 to 26, involving consultations with various stakeholders to assess the political and security situation.

Mr Magosi said the summit welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar and the national consultation processes launched by the Transitional Government on December 10.

Leaders stressed the intention to remain engaged with Madagascar’s political and security developments until a democratically elected government is in place.

In a strong call for inclusive dialogue, the summit urged Madagascar’s transitional government, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, to initiate a Malagasy-owned and led national dialogue during the transitional period.

The goal, according to the communiqué, is to pave the way for fresh elections and ensure the peaceful return of political exiles.

Leaders emphasised that reform processes must be timely and inclusive, creating conditions for meaningful participation by all stakeholders.

The summit also approved the deployment of a SADC Panel of Elders by March 2026, to be led by Joyce Banda.

Supported by the Mediation Reference Group and the SADC Secretariat, the panel will facilitate ongoing efforts to restore political stability, democracy, and peace.

Additionally, the summit directed the Panel of Elders to engage Joaquim Chissano, SADC Special Envoy to Madagascar, to provide historical context and guidance on unresolved issues, including constitutional reforms, electoral processes, and the rule of law.

Reaffirming the region’s firm stance on constitutional order, the summit directed Madagascar to submit a ‘dialogue readiness’ report and a draft National Roadmap by 28 February 2026, with periodic updates scheduled throughout the year.

Following the appointment of South Africa president Cyril Ramaphosa as SADC Chairperson, the summit appointed Zambia’s president Hakainde Hichilema as interim deputy chairperson to oversee ongoing regional efforts.

The summit also called for enhanced cooperation with the African Union and international partners to mobilise resources for Madagascar’s reforms, ensuring unified and effective support.

In his closing remarks, President Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the region’s collective resolve, saying the deployment of the Panel of Elders and the Mediation Reference Group demonstrated SADC’s commitment to a peaceful and stable Madagascar.

He urged all Malagasy stakeholders to seize the opportunity for peace, unity, and reconciliation, stressing that regional stability depends on regional cooperation. ENDS