A SADC Panel of Elders, led by former President Dr. Joyce Banda, has concluded the first phase of consultative meetings in Madagascar, aimed at supporting ongoing peace and mediation efforts in the country.
During the mission, the delegation held high-level engagements with key national, political, and diplomatic stakeholders. These included meetings with Celine Nathali, President of the National Network of Women; the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Sitiney Randrianasoloniako; and the President of the High Constitutional Court (HCC), Florent Rakotoarisoa.
The panel also consulted members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Madagascar, including representatives from the African Union, European Union, China, the United States, France, Germany, Russia, the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), and the Indian Ocean Commission, among others.
As part of its shuttle diplomacy, the delegation engaged a broad spectrum of political actors, including Colonel Michael Randrian of the Refoundation of Madagascar, Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, former President Marc Ravalomanana, representatives of former President Heraton Makilanana, and the Minister of State responsible for Refoundation in the Office of the President, Razafimanantsoa Hanitrinianana. Former President Andry Rajoelina, currently in Dubai, was also engaged through a virtual meeting.
Further consultations were held with the Council of Christian Churches in Madagascar (FFKM), the South African High Commissioner to Madagascar, youth representatives linked to recent Gen-Z protests, and a consortium of political parties.
Commenting on the engagements, Dr. Banda said, “The outcome of the meetings is very positive, with all stakeholders showing commitment to the peace and rebuilding process.”
Dr. Banda is expected to present the panel’s findings to the SADC Summit of Heads of State, with plans for the panel to return to Madagascar to conclude the mediation process.
