In a statement, he urged all parties, both civilian and military, to maintain calm and restraint, and to prioritize peaceful and consensual solutions to the current situation.

He also called for full respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens and welcomed the government’s renewed commitment to dialogue.

In his message, Youssouf remembered the principles enshrined in the 2000 Lome Declaration and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and therefore called on all Malagasy parties to demonstrate responsibility and patriotism.

He also called for work to preserve unity, stability, and peace in the country, fully respecting the Constitution and established institutional frameworks. He reaffirmed the African Union’s solidarity with the people and government of Madagascar at this time and expressed the continental organization’s readiness to support national and regional efforts aimed at a rapid return to institutional normalcy.

Madagascar has experienced a wave of protests since September 25, which led to the dissolution of the government and the appointment of a new prime minister.

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