LUSAKA, Zambia

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) urged regional solidarity and cooperation on Friday to address the situation in Madagascar after a military takeover of the government.

Addressing a virtual heads of state and government summit, the bloc’s deputy chairperson and South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa rallied leaders to "take decisive action in confronting challenges facing member states.".

"The future of southern Africa depends on the ability of countries to work together to find collective solutions that uphold peace and stability,” said Ramaphosa.

Madagascar interim President Col. Micheal Randrianirina was sworn into office last month after President Andry Rajoelina fled the country, citing an "attempt" on his life due to persistent anti-government protests concerning water and electricity shortages, which ran for a month.

Ramaphosa extended his wishes to those injured in protests in the Indian Ocean island nation, with SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi urging unity, peace and stability across the region.

Ramaphosa will assume the SADC chairmanship, a role confirmed during the summit, with the South African leader to serve in the capacity until August 2026.