The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has resolved to deploy a Mission of the SADC Panel of Elders to Madagascar on a fact-finding mission aimed at fostering a conducive environment for dialogue and stability.
The decision follows the recent military takeover in Madagascar, which saw President Andry Rajoelina ousted and lawmakers voting to impeach him after he fled the country over the weekend.
In a statement issued on Monday, 13 October, the chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, Arthur Peter Mutharika, urged all stakeholders in Madagascar to remain calm, exercise restraint, respect the rule of law, and uphold constitutional governance.
He also called for inclusive and constructive dialogue to resolve differences peacefully while safeguarding the rights, freedoms, and dignity of all citizens. Said Mutharika:
“As part of the efforts aimed at facilitating an early return to order in Madagascar and ending the crisis in that country, the SADC Organ stands ready to work in close collaboration with national authorities and regional partners to facilitate dialogue and support efforts aimed at restoring institutional normalcy and national cohesion.
“In this regard, the SADC will, without delay, deploy a Mission of the SADC Panel of Elders to Madagascar on a Fact-finding Mission and to facilitate a conducive environment for dialogue to take root.”
Mutharika said SADC remains steadfast, and urges all stakeholders to do the same, in upholding the principles of unity, solidarity, democracy, and the rule of law, which are fundamental to the peace, stability, and prosperity of the region.
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