The Government of Namibia has expressed deep concern over the recent political upheaval in Madagascar, where the military has reportedly taken control following the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina.
In a statement issued on Monday, Namibian President, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, said Namibia views the developments in the island nation with “grave concern”, warning that any attempt to assume power through unconstitutional means undermines regional stability and democratic governance within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
President Nandi-Ndaitwah recalled that in August this year, SADC leaders met in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital, during the 45th Ordinary Summit, where they collectively pledged to deepen economic integration, industrialisation, agricultural transformation, and energy transition across the region.
“These commitments were made in good faith and rest upon the understanding that stable governance, constitutional order, and respect for democratic norms are indispensable prerequisites for sustainable development,” she said.
The Namibian leader noted that it was particularly unfortunate that Madagascar — whose president, Andry Rajoelina, currently serves as Chairperson of SADC — is now engulfed in political instability that contradicts the very principles the regional bloc upholds.
“It is regrettable that these recent events appear to betray the very principles we reaffirmed only months ago,” she said. “Any attempt to assume power through unconstitutional means runs counter to the values and obligations that bind SADC member states.”
President Nandi-Ndaitwah strongly condemned the coup attempt and urged all actors, particularly within Madagascar’s security services, to “exercise restraint, adhere strictly to the rule of law, and facilitate a return to democratic order through peaceful, inclusive dialogue.”
She reaffirmed Namibia’s solidarity with the people of Madagascar and called on regional and continental bodies — including SADC and the African Union (AU) — to intensify mediation efforts aimed at restoring peace, constitutional governance, and stability in the country.
“Namibia reiterates its solidarity with the people of Madagascar in these trying times,” she concluded. “We urge all regional and continental bodies to ensure that the promises made at our August summit are honoured and not undermined.”
