South African bloc calls for constitutional transition in Madagascar

Leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) on Monday called on Madagascar's authorities to remain committed to clear, time-bound and transparent reforms aimed at safeguarding constitutional rule and democratic governance, News.Az reports, citing Anadolu Agency. The appeal comes as the Indian Ocean island nation continues to face a fragile political situation following the ousting of former President Andry Rajoelina in October after youth-led protests over water and electricity shortages escalated into violent unrest. Rajoelina was succeeded by Michael Randrianirina, an army colonel who has twice stated that he survived assassination attempts. In a communique issued after a virtual summit of SADC heads of state and government, the regional bloc urged Madagascar to implement reforms that would restore constitutional order and pave the way for a democratically elected government without delaying the aspirations of the Malagasy people. "The summit emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue, reconciliation and national consultations during the transition and called for the release of political prisoners, an end to arbitrary arrests of opposition leaders and Generation-Z members and the return of political exiles to the country," the communique stated. The summit, chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, also decided to expand the mandate of the SADC panel of elders assigned to Madagascar. The panel, which includes former Malawian President Joyce Banda and other regional leaders, will now oversee efforts related to reconciliation, electoral reform, and preparations for a constitutional referendum and general elections. In addition, SADC leaders expressed concern over the Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and reaffirmed their solidarity with the Congolese people.