the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ Troika meeting in
Swaziland to discuss developments in Madagascar
18 March 2009
South African Minister of Defence, Charles Nqakula will on Thursday, 19
March 2009, lead a South African government delegation to the SADC Organ Troika
on politics, defence and security co-operation scheduled for Mbabane,
Swaziland.
The SADC Organ Troika meeting is convened specifically to discuss the current
situation and developments in Madagascar following the resignation of President
Marc Ravalomanana on Tuesday 17 March and the hand over of power to the
military.
In his reaction to these developments, South African President and current
Chairperson of SADC, President Kgalema Motlanthe expressed regret at the
resignation of President Ravalomanana of Madagascar and the handing over of
power to the military directorate.
"Of particular concern are the unconstitutional attempts undertaken by the
opposition that led to the resignation of the democratically elected President
of a SADC member country. South Africa and SADC will never countenance the
unconstitutional transfer of power from a democratically elected government in
any of our member-states," said President Motlanthe.
"In this regard, SADC urges all role players in Madagascar to resolve their
differences through negotiations aimed at ensuring that a solution is found,
which is constitutional and will restore peace and stability on the island, as
a matter of priority," continued President Motlanthe.
"Accordingly, we call on all stake-holders to refrain from taking any action
that may be unconstitutional, inconsistent with the democratic values of our
region and the continent or lead to further loss of lives, injury or
destruction of property," concluded President Motlanthe.
Enquiries:
Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
18 March 2009
