Harare, (New Ziana) – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed deep concern over the wave of violent protests that have rocked Madagascar since Thursday last week, leaving a trail of destruction and sparking fears of further instability in the island nation.
According to reports, demonstrations broke out in the capital, Antananarivo, and spread to other towns including Antsirabé, resulting in an unconfirmed number of deaths, injuries, and significant damage to public and private property. In response, authorities have imposed a night-time curfew in the capital in a bid to contain the unrest.
In a statement, SADC executive secretary Elias Magosi conveyed the “unwavering support and solidarity” of the regional bloc to the government and the people of Madagascar during what he described as a “difficult period.” The regional bloc commended the Malagasy Government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability while safeguarding the security, dignity, and welfare of its citizens.
“The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has received with deep concern reports of violent protests in the Republic of Madagascar, particularly in the capital city of Antananarivo and other locations, including Antsirabé, since Thursday, 25 September 2025. SADC conveys its unwavering support and solidarity to the Government and the people of Madagascar during this difficult period,” he said.
Magosi said the loss of life, harm to individuals, and destruction of property are very unfortunate and run counter to the principles of peace, unity, and sustainable development that lie at the heart of the SADC vision.
He called on all stakeholders to exercise calm and restraint, urging both government authorities and demonstrators to prioritize dialogue and peaceful engagement as a pathway to national reconciliation.
Magosi also appealed to security forces to act with “maximum restraint and professionalism,” while encouraging protesters to channel grievances through lawful means.
“SADC reaffirms its full solidarity with the Government and people of Madagascar and remains committed to supporting their efforts to restore peace and stability throughout the country,” he said.
The protests, which observers say were sparked by political and socio-economic tensions, mark one of the most serious bouts of unrest Madagascar has faced in recent years, raising concerns over the potential destabilisation of the wider region.
New Ziana
