The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced the deployment of a high‑level mediation team to Madagascar by March 2026 as part of intensified regional efforts to restore constitutional order and support the country’s transition to democratic elections.
The decision followed a virtual Extraordinary Summit chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday where leaders welcomed the restoration of calm but urged the Malagasy transitional government to launch an inclusive national dialogue and facilitate the return of political exiles.
The mediation team will be led by former Malawian President Joyce Banda, supported by the SADC Panel of Elders and the Mediation Reference Group.
“Summit approved the deployment of the SADC Panel of Elders by March 2026, led by Dr. Joyce Banda, former President of the Republic of Malawi, together with the Mediation Reference Group, supported by the Secretariat, to facilitate and support the ongoing processes of restoration of political stability, democracy and peace in the Republic of Madagascar,” read a communique issued at the end of the meeting.
The summit also directed the team to consult former Mozambican President Joaquim Chissano, SADC’s Special Envoy to Madagascar, to provide contextual background on past interventions and unresolved issues, including constitutional reforms and electoral processes.
Madagascar has faced renewed instability since October 2025 when youth‑led protests escalated into a political crisis that forced the military‑backed transitional government under Colonel Michael Randrianirina to assume power.
Although calm has since returned, the country remains under pressure to deliver reforms and prepare for credible elections.
Madagascar has experienced repeated political upheavals since the 2009 ouster of President Marc Ravalomanana, with contested transitions and fragile governance structures undermining stability.
SADC leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting constitutional rule and democratic governance, directing Madagascar to submit a dialogue readiness report and a draft national roadmap by February 2026, followed by periodic updates throughout the year.
The SADC Secretariat was tasked with coordinating support from the African Union and international partners to mobilise resources for reforms.
JN/APA