Kigali October 15, 2025
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has announced the urgent deployment of a high-level mediation delegation to Madagascar following a sudden military takeover that has thrown the island nation into political turmoil.
According to regional diplomatic sources, the delegation ,comprising representatives from Angola, Tanzania, and South Africa ,is expected to arrive in Antananarivo within the next 48 hours. Their mission is to engage all political and military stakeholders in a bid to restore constitutional order and prevent further instability.
The crisis erupted earlier this week when the Malagasy Armed Forces seized control of key government institutions in the capital, forcing President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country under undisclosed circumstances. Reports indicate that the military leadership has suspended the constitution and dissolved the national assembly, citing “national security concerns” and “widespread corruption.”
In a statement issued late Tuesday, the SADC Secretariat in Gaborone expressed deep concern over the developments and reaffirmed the regional bloc’s commitment to upholding democratic governance.
“SADC condemns any unconstitutional change of government and calls for calm, dialogue, and the immediate restoration of civilian authority,” the statement read.
The bloc’s Chairperson, Angolan President João Lourenço, is said to be in direct contact with Madagascar’s political figures and regional partners, including the African Union and the United Nations, to coordinate efforts aimed at resolving the crisis peacefully.
The situation in Madagascar remains tense, with sporadic protests reported in parts of Antananarivo and major cities. The military leadership has yet to announce a transition plan, while international observers warn that prolonged instability could worsen economic hardship and insecurity across the country.
SADC’s move reflects growing regional concern that the coup could destabilize the broader Indian Ocean region, where Madagascar plays a key strategic and economic role.
As the delegation prepares to land in Antananarivo, the world watches closely to see whether diplomatic efforts can steer Madagascar back toward constitutional rule and stability.
