Hichilema Elected as Incoming Chair of Sadc

In a significant meeting held yesterday, the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) elected Zambia to be the new interim chair, following Madagascar’s decision to step down due to leadership changes in the country.

During an extraordinary virtual summit, former Malawian President Dr. Joyce Banda was appointed to lead a Panel of Elders to Madagascar.

This team will work to restore political stability and democracy amid recent unrest that led to the removal of President Andry Rajoelina, with Colonel Michael Randrianirina now acting as the transitional leader.

With Madagascar stepping down, South Africa was promoted from vice chair to interim chair, keeping the vice chair position open.

The meeting was led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, with Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, representing his country as the outgoing chair.

In his closing remarks, President Ramaphosa congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his election. He expressed eagerness to collaborate in promoting peace and prosperity in the region.