The African Union Commission (AUC) has called for calm and restraint in Madagascar following escalating political tensions marked by army movements and mass protests in the capital, Antananarivo.
In a statement on Sunday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the continental body is following the situation with deep concern, even as he called for dialogue among all parties 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 read.
Youssouf emphasized the need to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens and cautioned against any actions that could undermine constitutional order or threaten national unity.
He also reminded all political actors of the principles enshrined in the Lomé Declaration of 2000 and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which promote democratic governance and reject unconstitutional changes of government.
“He calls upon 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,” the statement added.
The African Union reaffirmed its solidarity with the people and government of Madagascar, expressing readiness to support national and regional initiatives that promote peace and a return to normalcy.
Youssouf said the AU stands prepared to assist in efforts aimed at restoring institutional stability and consolidating peace through inclusive dialogue.
“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,” he said.
The statement comes amid growing unrest in Madagascar, where protests have intensified since late September.
Reports indicate that some soldiers have joined demonstrators calling for political change, raising fears of a 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 respect for the rule of law.