Namibia condemns unconstitutional power grab in Madagascar

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Namibia condemns unconstitutional power grab in Madagascar
Namibia condemns unconstitutional power grab in Madagascar

Africa-Press – Namibia. PRESIDENT Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed Namibia’s grave concern over the recent political developments in Madagascar, where the military has taken control following the impeachment and ousting of President Andry Rajoelina.

In a statement issued, President Nandi-Ndaitwah condemned any attempt to assume power through unconstitutional means, stressing that such actions undermine regional stability and the democratic principles upheld by the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“Any attempt to assume power through unconstitutional means runs counter to the values and obligations that bind SADC member states,” the statement read.

“We strongly condemn any effort to subvert constitutional order and call upon all actors in Madagascar, especially those in the security services, to exercise restraint, adhere to the rule of law, and facilitate a return to democratic order through peaceful, inclusive dialogue.”

President Nandi-Ndaitwah reminded that during the 45th Ordinary SADC Summit held in Antananarivo in August 2025, regional leaders made solemn commitments to deepen integration, strengthen governance, and uphold democratic norms as the foundation for sustainable development.

She added that Madagascar, under President Rajoelina’s leadership as SADC Chairperson, had been entrusted with promoting these very principles—making the current turn of events particularly regrettable.

“These developments betray the principles we reaffirmed only months ago,” she said. “Such actions risk eroding public trust and endangering the peace and stability that are vital for regional progress.”

According to Reuters, Madagascar’s military announced on Tuesday that it had taken power after President Rajoelina was impeached by lawmakers and reportedly fled the country amid weeks of youth-led protests and army defections.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led the mutiny, said on national radio that the military would rule the country for up to two years alongside a transitional government before organising new elections. Several national institutions, including the Senate, the High Constitutional Court, and the Independent National Electoral Commission, have been suspended.

Namibia reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Madagascar and called on SADC and the African Union (AU) to support mediation efforts aimed at restoring constitutional order.

“We urge all regional and continental bodies to actively assist in returning Madagascar to democratic governance and ensuring that the promises made at our August summit are honoured and not undermined,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah stated.

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