regarding developments in Madagascar
17 March 2009
South African President and Chairperson of Southern African Development
Community (SADC) President Kgalema Motlanthe today, Tuesday 17 March joined
leaders of the African Union (AU) in expressing regret at the resignation of
President Marc 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."
"SADC will continue to monitor the situation closely. In this context the
SADC Organ Troika of Politics, Defence and Security will be convening in
Mbabane, Swaziland on Thursday, 19 March to review the situation in Madagascar"
concluded President Motlanthe.
Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs
17 March 2008
