President Ramaphosa Receives Briefing on Madagascar’s Transitional Process

Pretoria, Friday, 16 January 2026 — President Cyril Ramaphosa today received a high-level briefing from Colonel Michael Randrianirina, President of the Refoundation of the Republic of Madagascar, at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the Official Residence of the President in Pretoria.

The engagement focused on developments in Madagascar’s ongoing transitional process. Colonel Randrianirina briefed President Ramaphosa on measures being undertaken to ensure a peaceful transition, including the initiation of an inclusive national dialogue involving all segments of Malagasy society.

President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and reaffirmed South Africa’s support for Madagascar’s transition to constitutional democracy. In line with decisions taken by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of an inclusive national dialogue as a cornerstone for restoring constitutional order and paving the way for credible elections at the earliest opportunity.

The President further reiterated SADC’s commitment to supporting Madagascar during this period, reaffirming the regional bloc’s decision to deploy the SADC Panel of the Elders to Madagascar. The Panel is expected to play a facilitative role in encouraging dialogue, fostering consensus, and supporting efforts toward a peaceful and democratic resolution.

South Africa, as a member of SADC, continues to underscore the importance of regional solidarity, stability, and adherence to constitutional principles as essential foundations for sustainable peace and development in the region.