SADC Pressure on Madagascar: SADC leaders, meeting in an extraordinary virtual summit chaired by South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, demanded the immediate release of political prisoners in Madagascar and an end to arrests of opposition figures and Gen-Z activists, urging the government to carry out clear, time-bound, transparent reforms that restore constitutional order and pave the way for a democratically elected government. Transition Oversight: The bloc backed inclusive dialogue, reconciliation, and national consultations, including communicating reforms in local languages, and expanded the mandate of its Panel of Elders (including Joyce Banda) to cover reconciliation, electoral reform, and preparations for a referendum and general elections. Regional Diplomacy: SADC said its decisions followed fact-finding and shuttle diplomacy missions to assess the political and security situation after the 2025 uprising that ended with the military taking control. Madagascar-Linked International Engagement: Madagascar’s Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison attended a Russian Defence Ministry-organised Black Sea Fleet Song and Dance Ensemble concert in Antananarivo, where she cited planned Russian support for healthcare and road construction, alongside military cooperation. Energy Access Context: Separate coverage highlighted Africa’s electrification push, noting Madagascar among countries facing major electricity access gaps—an issue that has fed political tension in the country.