President Mutharika Calls for Regional Unity to Restore Peace in Madagascar

-As political turmoil escalates in Madagascar, SADC leaders urged to act collectively to uphold democracy, rule of law, and regional stability.

By Burnett Munthali* 

President Peter Mutharika, in his capacity as Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has called for collective regional action to restore peace and the rule of law in Madagascar.

The President made the remarks yesterday during a virtual Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government.

“We must ensure the situation in Madagascar is resolved and that peace and the rule of law returns,” he said.

He added that SADC must continue to play a collective peacebuilding and peacemaking role across Southern Africa.

“The strength of SADC lies in our collective resolve,” Mutharika emphasized, highlighting the importance of unity among member states.

Madagascar’s embattled President, Andry Rajoelina, fled his country citing threats to his life amid growing unrest.

Following his departure, Rajoelina was stripped of his position as Chairperson of SADC and replaced by South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa on an interim basis until August 2026.

The political turmoil in Madagascar was initially triggered by widespread protests over water and power shortages, but the unrest quickly expanded to address broader issues such as poverty, corruption, and political inequality.

The situation escalated into a military takeover, with interim President Colonel Michael Randrianirina sworn in on October 17.

President Mutharika’s intervention underscores the regional body’s commitment to preventing further destabilization and supporting democratic governance in member states.

SADC leaders at the Summit deliberated on the need for coordinated action to restore political stability, ensure civilian protection, and promote dialogue between all parties in Madagascar.

The ongoing crisis serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of Southern African politics and the importance of regional solidarity in addressing threats to peace and development.

Malawi, under Mutharika’s leadership in the SADC Organ, has positioned itself as a key advocate for collective responsibility and regional peace.

The Summit concluded with a call for continuous monitoring, engagement, and support to Madagascar to ensure that democratic institutions and the rule of law are preserved.