ANTANANARIVO – ZAMBIA has assumed the chairship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), left vacant after the coup in Madagascar.
President Hakainde Hichilema has assumed the position on an interim basis from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, during the closing ceremony of the SADC Virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government on Wednesday.
The virtual summit was convened to deliberate on the political situation in Madagascar, where the military overthrew President Andry Rajoelina in October.
“Zambia supports the mission and its recommendations aimed at restoring constitutional normalcy in Madagascar,” Hichilema said.
“We are deeply honoured to have been elected Interim Incoming Chair of SADC until August 2026 and reaffirm our commitment to work closely with Member States, the SADC Secretariat, and cooperating partners to ensure continuity and timely implementation of SADC decisions.”
Coincidentally, polls in Zambia are scheduled for August 2026.
Ramaphosa said SADC had resolved to deploy a Panel of Elders to Madagascar to engage all stakeholders and facilitate a smooth and peaceful transition to democratic elections.
He emphasised that SADC would remain engaged until an elected government was installed through a democratic process.
Ramaphosa also urged Madagascar to consider national dialogue to allow citizens in political exile to return and participate freely.
Elias Magosi, SADC Executive Secretary revealed former Malawian president, Joyce Banda, will lead the Panel of Elders to the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar.
– CAJ News
