South Africa has assumed the role of interim chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) after Madagascar stepped down due to ongoing political unrest. This move marks a crucial regional authority change in the bloc.
Madagascar Steps Down Amid Instability
The decision was confirmed during a virtual extraordinary summit of SADC heads of state and government held late Friday. Madagascar’s withdrawal follows nationwide protests in September that led to the ouster of former president Andry Rajoelina, causing loss of life and damage to public infrastructure.
Transitional president Michael Randrianirina represented Madagascar at the summit, citing political instability as the reason for relinquishing leadership.
Interim Leadership Protocol
A communique from the summit highlighted the procedural basis for the transition:
“Summit acknowledged that, in accordance with Articles 9A(2)(b) and 10(4) of the SADC Treaty, the Incoming Chairperson (Deputy Chairperson) shall assume interim leadership should the sitting Chair be unable to fulfil their duties.”
In line with this, South Africa has been appointed interim chair of SADC until August 2026, ensuring continuity in governance while maintaining the bloc’s sadc regional integration agenda.
Next Steps in Leadership Transfer
The SADC Secretariat will consult member states to appoint a new deputy chairperson by 30 November, following the rotational leadership principle. Outgoing Chairperson, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, offered to host selected SADC meetings during the interim period to support a smooth leadership transfer process.
SADC’s Ongoing Agenda
Despite the transition, SADC remains committed to the priorities outlined at its 45th Summit in Antananarivo: “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC.” Leaders from 15 of the 16 member states, including Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Angola, attended the summit, with only Comoros absent.
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This story was first reported by [APO Group]. Read the full article here.
