The Southern African Development Community has expressed grave concern over the recent political and security developments in Madagascar, following reports of an attempted coup d’état that has threatened the island nation’s peace and stability.
In a statement dated 13 October 2025, SADC Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and President of Malawi, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, said the regional bloc is “particularly alarmed by reports of an attempted coup d’état, which threatens the peace, stability, democratic and constitutional order of the country.”
Mutharika reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to supporting Madagascar in restoring constitutional order and safeguarding democratic governance.
“In line with the SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting Madagascar in its efforts to restore peace, uphold constitutional order, and safeguard democratic governance,” he stated.
The bloc expressed condolences to families affected by the unrest. “SADC deeply regrets the loss of life, injuries, and destruction of property resulting from recent demonstrations, and offers its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the process,” the statement read.
The regional body called on all stakeholders in Madagascar to remain calm and resolve differences peacefully.
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“SADC calls upon all stakeholders in Madagascar to exercise maximum calm and restraint; respect the rule of law and uphold constitutional governance; engage in inclusive and constructive dialogue to resolve differences peacefully; and safeguard the rights, freedoms, and dignity of all citizens,” Mutharika urged.
He also appealed to law enforcement authorities to maintain professionalism and restraint in handling the crisis, in line with international human rights standards.
“SADC urges law enforcement agencies to act with professionalism, impartiality, and a great sense of restraint, consistent with the international human rights laws,” he said.
To help restore order, SADC announced that it would deploy a Fact-Finding Mission through its Panel of Elders to Madagascar.
“The SADC will, without delay, deploy a Mission of the SADC Panel of Elders to Madagascar on a Fact-Finding Mission and to facilitate a conducive environment for dialogue to take root,” Mutharika confirmed.
He emphasized that the regional bloc remains steadfast in its principles of unity, solidarity, democracy, and the rule of law.
“SADC remains, and encourages all stakeholders to be, steadfast in its shared commitment to the principles of unity, solidarity, democracy, and the rule of law, principles that are cardinal and essential for the peace, stability, and prosperity of our region,” the statement concluded.
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