In Durban, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) reaffirmed its support for the Refoundation process in Madagascar. It welcomed the steps already taken while reiterating the principles that should guide the remainder of the process.
Inclusive governance. This term appears in the section of the communiqué concerning Madagascar, issued during the 46th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the SADC on Monday. Following the meeting in Durban, South Africa, the regional organization sent a favorable signal toward Madagascar. Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, Head of State, noted this to the press yesterday at the Ivato airport VIP lounge, stating, “The previous communiqué was sharper and even sparked controversy,” referring to the SADC extraordinary summit communiqué on June 29.
Point 9 of the communiqué states that “the Summit commended the Republic of Madagascar for the constructive consultations” conducted under the aegis of its Committee of Elders, among others. It also affirms “the SADC’s commitment to support the Refoundation process and the development program of Madagascar.” However, the document adds principles that, according to the regional organization, should guide the rest of the process, including “the promotion of inclusive governance, democratic institutions, accountability, human rights, citizen participation, and the return to constitutional normality.”
In the political arena, some interpret this as a recommendation to broaden the circle of power or even share power among stakeholders. A diplomat noted that while the term could imply power-sharing if read through a purely political lens, it also encompasses broader objectives, such as ensuring that all segments of society are involved in defining the country’s political and institutional future to avoid further crises.
The term also highlights the need to address structural causes of the crisis, such as the concentration of power and institutional dysfunction. This brings the focus back to the national consultation initiative, which is intended to be the foundation of the Refoundation process but has been slow to start. Colonel Randrianirina emphasized that the SADC’s support is the basis for leading the country toward elections, urging that the communiqué should not be subject to excessive interpretation.
Finally, the regional organization stressed the importance of maintaining the “relative calm” in the country, urging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue to express their grievances.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-19 05:54:01 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/refondation-la-sadc-recommande-une.html