AU calls for calm, dialogue amid political tensions in Madagascar

The African Union has called on all Malagasy stakeholders, both civilian and military, to exercise calm and restraint, and to prioritize peaceful and consensual solutions to the political situation in Madagascar.

In a statement, the Chairperson of the African Union Mahmoud Ali Youssouf called for the full respect of the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens.

This following recent political and security developments in the country, marked by movements within the army and popular demonstrations in Antananarivo.

“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, is following with deep concern the recent political and security developments in the Republic of Madagascar, marked by movements within the army and popular demonstrations in Antananarivo.” He noted.

The Chairperson recalled the principles enshrined in the Lomé Declaration of 2000 and in the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.

He urged all Malagasy parties to demonstrate responsibility and patriotism, and to work towards the preservation of unity, stability, and peace in the country, in full respect of the Constitution and established institutional frameworks.

Youssouf reaffirmed the solidarity of the African Union with the people and Government of Madagascar expressing the readiness of the continental organization to support national and regional efforts aimed at a rapid return to institutional normalcy, stability, and the consolidation of peace.