A reception at Iavoloha following the military parade? The question is unavoidable. Yesterday, in mid-morning, the government’s official Facebook news outlet, ‘Dépêche informative Taratra,’ published an announcement addressed to the press, issued by the Prime Minister’s communications department.
The authenticity of this press note is confirmed. It informs journalists of an accreditation application procedure for those wishing to provide media coverage of an event at Iavoloha, following the military parade in Mahamasina. The word ‘Fanasana’ was used in the note. In Malagasy, this word implies an invitation to a reception or a banquet. For now, there are no details regarding the nature of the event, nor the status or number of those who will be invited to this gathering at the Iavoloha State Palace.
Furthermore, by mid-afternoon, the press announcement was no longer visible on the ‘Dépêche informative Taratra’ page. According to rumors, the event planned at Iavoloha after the military parade will ultimately not be subject to media coverage. However, sources did not indicate whether the event itself is still scheduled to take place.
Holding a presidential banquet after the National Day military parade was an essential state tradition a few years ago. It was specifically on this occasion that the Head of State would deliver his celebratory speech. However, the practice faced criticism from the public, arguing that it was a drain on the budget and inappropriate, given that a portion of the population is facing food insecurity. Consequently, the presidential banquet has been removed from the independence celebration programs for several years now.
Garry Fabrice Ranaivoson
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-20 07:00:43 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/fete-nationale-un-banquet-presidentiel.html