Unless there is another schedule shift, the national consultation is expected to take place this August. Announced as the pillar of the refoundation process initiated by the authorities, this phase remains shrouded in uncertainty.
Several unknowns persist regarding the national consultation as August, the month designated for the start of the debates, approaches. These uncertainties raise questions about the feasibility of meeting the twenty-four-month deadline set in the Refoundation timeline.
The State has granted full authority to the Council of Christian Churches in Madagascar (FFKM) to lead the national consultation, including the methodology and the creation of a calendar. The FFKM intends to conduct these debates starting from the Fokontany level, moving through communes, regions, provinces, and finally to the national level.
However, since the publication of a summary calendar on June 21, the FFKM has remained silent. The calendar indicates that after a preparation period in June and July, the core debates will begin in August and conclude in March 2027. This period also includes the synthesis of “people’s aspirations,” the drafting of technical documents, and the development of a draft Constitution and electoral laws.
According to reports, the FFKM is waiting for the return of one of its four church leaders currently abroad to finalize the details. This delay fuels concerns about meeting the government’s deadlines. In the Refoundation timeline submitted to SADC on February 28, the State committed to holding a referendum or constitutional election and a presidential election before the end of 2027.
During a meeting with the diaspora in Egypt on Wednesday, Head of State Colonel Michaël Randrianirina reaffirmed the goal of holding elections by the end of 2027. He also introduced a new variable: a political dialogue is in the works, following his recent meetings with former presidents Marc Ravalomanana and Hery Rajaonarimampianina. This political dialogue is expected to run parallel to the national consultation, potentially isolating sensitive political issues from the constitutional reform process. Whether this dual approach will enhance efficiency or increase suspicions of exclusion remains to be seen.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-31 05:53:45 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/chronogramme-de-la-refondation-un-mois.html