The debate between a decentralized unitary state and a federal model sparked controversy during the National Youth Consultation. In his closing speech on Saturday, the Head of State left it to the people to decide through a vote.
A sensitive subject. Based on the turn of events at the National Youth Consultation, which concluded on Saturday, the question of the form of the State under the Fifth Republic could be one of the most delicate points of the refoundation process. In response to the stir caused by this topic, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, the Head of State, emphasized that the final decision would rest with the population through a vote.
“(…) The first point you raised concerns politics. We will submit it to the national consultation, and then to the choice of the Malagasy people, who will pronounce themselves, when the time comes, on the form of State to be adopted in the new Republic toward which we are heading,” declared the leader at the International Conference Center (CCI) in Ivato on Saturday.
For four days, youth representatives from the country’s twenty-four regions gathered at the CCI in Ivato. At the end of the debates, participants agreed on a resolution containing several points presented as “recommendations,” covering areas such as the economy, education, health, and sports. However, as the senior officer noted, these points were overshadowed by the political aspects, particularly the form of the State.
The resolution proposes choosing between two forms of State: a strongly decentralized unitary state with a tricameral parliamentary system, or a federal state ensuring a balanced distribution of power between the federal government and the federated provinces. A technical committee will be formed to draft the texts.
Before reaching this consensus, the question of the ideal form of State for the Fifth Republic crystallized tensions. During the debates, the results were balanced, which displeased those in favor of shifting to a federal state. While some argue that federalism could foster balanced development, others fear it could threaten national unity. Colonel Randrianirina reiterated that ultimately, the people will decide the Constitution that will serve as the foundation for the Fifth Republic through a vote.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-03 06:08:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/debat-sur-la-forme-de-letat-le-colonel.html