Madagascar has announced its withdrawal from the rotating chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which it was due to assume in 2025. This decision comes in a delicate political context, marked by internal tensions and the Malagasy government's stated desire to prioritize national stability.

In an official statement, the Malagasy authorities indicated that this decision aims to "preserve the best interests of the nation" and allow the country to focus on "internal priorities in terms of governance, development, and socio-political stability." Madagascar nevertheless specifies that it remains fully committed to the strategic activities and projects of the SADC.

An exceptional decision

The withdrawal of a member state from the rotating presidency remains rare within the organization, which comprises 16 countries. Madagascar was slated to succeed Malawi in assuming this diplomatic and strategic responsibility. The rotating presidency allows the country in question to steer major regional political and economic policies for one year.

According to regional observers, this withdrawal could be linked to current internal issues, including ongoing reforms, socio-economic challenges and post-election political tensions.

The SADC takes note

For its part, the SADC acknowledged Madagascar's decision while reaffirming its partnership with the country. The organization is expected to designate another member state soon to assume the presidency for the designated period.

With this decision, Madagascar hopes to avoid any additional diplomatic pressure, while the government claims to want to focus primarily on national development, political appeasement and the consolidation of institutions.