Staff Reporter
NAMIBIA has joined other Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states in backing a regional push to restore constitutional order and democratic governance in Madagascar, following an Extraordinary Virtual Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government held on Wednesday.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah participated in the summit, which resolved to intensify regional engagement with Madagascar’s Transitional Government and approved the deployment of the SADC Panel of Elders to support inclusive national dialogue and preparations for fresh elections.
The summit considered a report from the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation on the political and security situation in Madagascar, following a technical fact-finding mission conducted in October. Leaders welcomed the restoration of calm in the country but stressed that sustained efforts are needed to ensure a peaceful return to constitutional rule.
SADC urged the Transitional Government of Madagascar, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, to initiate a Malagasy-owned and inclusive national dialogue during the transition period, while also facilitating the peaceful return of political exiles. The region reaffirmed its commitment to remain engaged until an elected government is established through credible electoral processes.
To support the process, the summit approved the deployment of the SADC Panel of Elders by March 2026, to be led by former Malawian president Joyce Banda. The panel will work with the SADC Secretariat and mediation structures to assist Madagascar in restoring political stability, democracy and peace.
Madagascar has also been directed to submit a dialogue readiness report and a draft national roadmap by the end of February 2026, with further progress updates scheduled throughout the year.
The summit also addressed leadership matters within the regional bloc. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was appointed Interim Incoming Chairperson of SADC, following the appointment of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as Chairperson.
In his address to the summit, President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of regional solidarity in addressing political and security challenges, while reaffirming SADC’s commitment to democratic governance and stability across the region.
The outcomes of the summit underscore Namibia’s continued commitment to regional peace, democratic principles and collective action through SADC, particularly in responding to political instability among member states.
Screenshot of the Extraordinary Virtual Summit: The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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