The African Union Commission (AUC) has urged calm and restraint in Madagascar as the country faces escalating political tensions, marked by army movements and widespread protests in the capital, Antananarivo.
In a statement released on Sunday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over the unfolding situation and called on all parties to engage in dialogue to prevent further instability.
“The Chairperson of the Commission welcomes the Government’s renewed commitment to dialogue and urges all Malagasy stakeholders, both civilian and military, to exercise calm and restraint, and to prioritize peaceful and consensual solutions to the current situation,” the statement said.
Youssouf stressed the importance of respecting fundamental rights and freedoms, cautioning against any actions that could undermine the constitutional order or threaten national unity.
He reminded political actors of the principles of the Lomé Declaration of 2000 and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance, which uphold democratic governance and reject unconstitutional changes of government.
The AU chairperson called on all Malagasy parties to demonstrate responsibility and patriotism, emphasizing the need to preserve unity, stability, and peace while fully respecting the Constitution and existing institutional frameworks.
The African Union reaffirmed its solidarity with Madagascar and expressed readiness to support national and regional initiatives aimed at restoring stability and normalcy.
“The African Union expresses its readiness to support national and regional efforts aimed at a rapid return to institutional normalcy, stability, and the consolidation of peace,” Youssouf added.
The call for calm comes amid intensifying protests that began in late September, with reports indicating that some soldiers have joined demonstrators demanding political change, raising concerns over a potential broader crisis.
The AU reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, democracy, and constitutional governance across Africa, urging Malagasy leaders to resolve their differences through dialogue and adherence to the rule of law.