AU Calls for Restraint, Dialogue amid Tensions in Madagascar

ADDIS ABABA, Xinhua: African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Sunday called for restraint and peaceful, consensual solutions to rising political tensions in Madagascar.

In a statement, Youssouf said he was following with “deep concern” recent political and security developments in the country, marked by army movements and public demonstrations in the capital, Antananarivo.

Welcoming the government’s renewed commitment to dialogue, Youssouf urged all Malagasy stakeholders, both civilian and military, to exercise calm and restraint and prioritize peaceful approaches to resolving the situation.

He called on all Malagasy parties to act with responsibility and patriotism to safeguard unity, stability, and peace, in full respect of the constitution and established institutional frameworks.

The AUC chair also underscored the need to uphold the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens, recalling the principles set out in the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance.

Youssouf reaffirmed the AU’s solidarity with the people and government of Madagascar “in these difficult times,” and expressed the bloc’s readiness to support national and regional efforts aimed at restoring institutional normalcy and consolidating peace.

Last week, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina appointed Ruphin Fortunat Dimbisoa Zafisambo as the country’s new prime minister, a week after dissolving the government amid mass protests. Rajoelina said the new premier must be “capable of restoring order and regaining the people’s trust,” with a focus on improving living conditions and advancing key national priorities.