Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo-Herald Reporter
SADC is this week deploying a fact-finding mission to Madagascar following reports of an attempted coup d’état, chairperson of the regional bloc’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation Malawian President Peter Mutharika has said.
This follows violent demonstrations in Madagascar that have seen the loss of lives and destruction of property.
Former President of Malawi Dr Joyce Banda and Members of the Sadc Panel of Elders will lead the mission to Madagascar, which will also consist of members of the Mediation Reference Group, Ms Helen Lwegasila Brahim and Ambassador Joey Bimha, as well as representatives from the Sadc Secretariat.
The findings and recommendations of the mission will be presented to the chairperson of the Sadc Organ and subsequently to the Sadc Organ Troika Summit.
President Mutharika said the deployment sought to facilitate an early return to constitutional order and help resolve the crisis.
“This mission, led by the Sadc Panel of Elders, aims to engage the Government and other national stakeholders in efforts to de-escalate tensions and foster a conducive environment for inclusive dialogue.
“The mission is also tasked with identifying the key issues underpinning the current political and security situation,” he said.
Sadc, said the Organ Chair, reiterates its call for all parties involved in the crisis to choose the path of restraint, peace, and dialogue as no further Malagasy lives should be lost due to the unrest.
“The Southern African Development Community is following with grave concern the recent political and security developments in the Republic of Madagascar.
“The community is alarmed by reports of an attempted coup d’état, which poses a serious threat to the peace, stability, and democratic order of the country.
“As chairperson of the Sadc Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, I and the Sadc Community wish to express profound solidarity with the people of Madagascar during this challenging time,” he said.
President Mutharika reaffirmed the regional bloc’s unwavering commitment to supporting Madagascar in its efforts to restore peace, uphold constitutional order, and safeguard democratic governance, in accordance with the SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
“SADC urges law enforcement agencies to act with professionalism, impartiality, and restraint, in accordance with international human rights standards.
“AlI citizens of Madagascar are encouraged to express their concerns through lawful and peaceful means.
“SADC further urges a stakeholders to remain committed to the principles of unity, solidarity, democracy, and the rule of law, which are essential for the peace, stability, and prosperity of our region,” he said.
On her part, Head of Mission Dr Banda urged all stakeholders in Madagascar to remain hopeful.
She expressed her firm belief that the fact-finding mission will pave the way for the restoration of peace and stability, while addressing the core issues through inclusive and lasting solutions.
The protests by a group calling itself Gen Z Madagascar have spilled onto the streets for about three weeks.
Last Saturday witnessed one of the largest protests since the unrest began last month over a purported range of issues.
