Electoral process: The Safidy Observatory raises the alarm about crucial risks and calls for a collective overhaul

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

In 2026, Madagascar finds itself at a crucial crossroads regarding the credibility of its electoral process. The recent political crisis, amplified by an unprecedented mobilization of young people, particularly the Gen Z movement, reveals the fragility of its institutions and the weakness of the democratic pact. Faced with this situation, the Safidy Observatory is sounding the alarm, emphasizing that the accumulation of dysfunctions and questionable practices threatens electoral transparency and integrity. The crisis that began in September led to the installation of a provisional government exercised by senior officers within a purely opportunistic framework, without a clear democratic mandate. This precarious situation, stemming from a lack of consensus and a crisis of legitimacy, underscores the imperative need for collective reflection aimed at a profound overhaul of the electoral process, in order to ensure genuine citizen participation and strengthened legality. The issue goes beyond purely institutional matters to touch upon the very essence of democracy in Madagascar, requiring collective mobilization to restore trust in democratic mechanisms and guarantee their compliance with the fundamental principles of transparency and inclusion.

Discover the key stages of the electoral process, from election preparation to the proclamation of results, to better understand how democracy functions.

The political context of 2026: crisis, instability, and democratic challenges.

The electoral context in Madagascar in 2026 is marked by an acute crisis, triggered by massive public protests, particularly from young people of the Gen Z movement, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the failings of the existing political system. The vacancy of the presidency and the Senate, coupled with the government’s inability to guarantee the maintenance of a stable institutional framework, has led to an unprecedented situation in which the legitimacy of the authorities is seriously questioned. The appointment of a new power structure comprised of officers from the armed forces constitutes a radical break with democratic norms, challenging the very legality of the ongoing transition.

The stakes are crucial: the credibility of the electoral process is directly threatened by the absence of a clear constitutional framework, as well as by a series of questionable political practices. The situation reveals a worrying trend in which respect for the rules and the legitimacy of institutions are undermined, weakening democracy and hindering citizen participation. Mistrust is growing as key actors such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and the High Constitutional Court (HCC) face strong challenges to their legitimacy, complicating any prospect of resolving the crisis through sovereign and credible elections.

This climate of instability is not unprecedented in contemporary Malagasy history, but the gravity of the situation calls for collective and concerted action to preserve democratic foundations. The overhaul of the entire electoral process must be based on transparency, inclusion, and respect for the principles of integrity, in order to restore public confidence and pave the way for lasting stability.

Discover the electoral process: key stages, the importance of voting, and how elections work to guarantee democracy.

Major electoral risks: a danger to democratic credibility The electoral risks facing Madagascar in 2026 are numerous and particularly worrying, as they compromise not only the integrity of the upcoming elections but also overall trust in the entire national democratic system. Among these risks, the non-compliance of the processes for appointing members of electoral institutions, distrust in the transparency of operations, and vulnerability to potential manipulation are paramount.Recent events have shown that the contested appointments of officials such as the president of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) or the partial suspension of elections (see this page) illustrate a power struggle between political actors and institutions. This context fosters the concentration of power, to the detriment of a balanced and impartial electoral framework. Simultaneously, the lack of a clear and transparent process for implementing electoral reforms (considered by some as an urgent overhaul of the 2025 electoral college) creates fertile ground for the risks of fraud or abuse in future elections. Furthermore, the inadequacy of a robust legal framework and the weakness of oversight mechanisms are likely to hinder any attempt to organize credible, free, and fair elections. The consequence would be a lasting crisis of legitimacy, exacerbating the already fragile political situation. The current trajectory highlights the urgent need to strengthen the protection of democratic principles by adopting structural reforms and guaranteeing inclusive citizen participation.

Discover the electoral process, its key stages, and its importance in democracy for ensuring free and transparent elections.

The structural weakness of electoral institutions, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) and the High Constitutional Court (HCC), constitutes a major obstacle to holding credible and legitimate elections in Madagascar. These bodies, which are supposed to guarantee respect for democratic rules and principles, are currently weakened by contested appointments and an opaque selection process, fueling mistrust and uncertainty.

The controversies surrounding their legitimacy contribute to a profound crisis of confidence, which undermines the electoral process as a whole. The recent suspension of elections, notably due to conflicts of interest and questionable decisions, illustrates these difficulties in managing the electoral process (see this page). The perception of partisan control or bias undermines their credibility, complicating their role as impartial arbiters in conducting transparent and fair elections.

In this context, transparency becomes a vital issue. The absence of independent oversight and accountability mechanisms, coupled with an unequal electoral system, breeds widespread distrust. A thorough overhaul of these institutions is therefore crucial to restore their legitimacy and their capacity to organize elections that truly reflect the will of the people.Reforming the electoral framework: an essential step for a sustainable democracy

A thorough reform of the electoral framework now appears to be a prerequisite for restoring confidence and guaranteeing the legitimacy of future elections. The critical situation calls for fundamental reflection on the renewal of rules, practices, and institutions to eliminate any possibility of manipulation or political interference. The overhaul of the 2025 electoral college must be accompanied by a new mode of governance that promotes transparency and citizen participation.

It is not enough to revise the regulatory framework. A culture of responsibility and mutual trust must also be established among political actors, institutions, and citizens. The implementation of new control procedures, regular audits, and training for electoral stakeholders would contribute to strengthening the credibility of the electoral process. In this regard, national consultation must play a central role, involving all stakeholders in an inclusive approach aimed at creating shared electoral governance. Furthermore, establishing a robust civic education system is essential to ensuring greater voter participation, particularly among young people. This would require an intensive information and awareness campaign aimed at improving public understanding of the electoral process and encouraging active and inclusive participation. Electoral reform can only be effective if it is based on consensus and collective co-creation, founded on transparency and mutual accountability.

Citizen participation and electoral education: the cornerstone of the democratic process To mitigate electoral risks and consolidate a credible process, Madagascar must urgently strengthen citizen participation and voter education. Limited knowledge of the electoral process, coupled with widespread mistrust, remains a major obstacle to the proper conduct of elections. Implementing a comprehensive awareness program, particularly targeting young people, would enhance the legitimacy and representativeness of elections.

This level of citizen involvement must be part of a structured approach, creating spaces for exchange and dialogue around democratic issues. Disseminating objective and accessible information through the media, social networks, and citizen forums plays a crucial role in improving participation and combating disinformation. Transparency in the organization and management of elections is essential for building trust and establishing a stable democratic future.

Educational programs, such as intensive awareness campaigns or civic education, should also aim to improve citizen oversight tools, enabling everyone to ensure the smooth running of the electoral process. Citizen participation must become a fundamental pillar, not only to legitimize the results but also to build a participatory democracy rooted in the realities and lived experiences of the people.

The crucial role of international actors in electoral stabilization

In light of institutional shortcomings and a deep-rooted crisis of confidence, the role of international actors appears essential for reforming the electoral process in Madagascar. The international community must actively support the implementation of reforms by providing expertise, technical assistance, and credible financial support. Cooperation with organizations such as the [legislative transparency] guarantees the credibility of initiatives undertaken and promotes respect for democratic norms.

It is crucial that this assistance be conducted within a framework that respects Malagasy sovereignty, while ensuring independent oversight of the electoral process. International monitoring, particularly through election observation missions, would strengthen the transparency and legitimacy of elections. Past experience shows that collective commitment and the mobilization of engaged partners can play a decisive role in consolidating democratic principles.

This support must also foster dialogue among all stakeholders, with a view to unifying approaches and reaching a shared consensus. Madagascar’s long-term stability depends largely on the success of this multilateral cooperation, which must aim to establish sound, responsible electoral governance that respects the rights of all citizens.

A democratic transition: challenges and prospects for future stability The interplay of issues related to Madagascar’s democratic transition in 2026 demonstrates that only a concerted process, avoiding any form of imposition or unilateral arbitration, can ensure the legitimacy and sustainability of the regime. Establishing a clearly articulated roadmap based on principles of participation, transparency, and accountability must be a priority. Collective recognition by all political and institutional actors of the importance of a robust legal framework is essential to prevent a relapse into instability.

Opportunities exist to build a democratic future founded on trust, civic engagement, and strict adherence to the rules. Organizing a constructive dialogue, integrating all segments of society without exclusion or partisan strategies, will allow for the development of a lasting consensus. The participation of recognized figures such as

Thierry Rakotonarivo

or other key actors is essential to lend credibility to the process.

Only a structured approach, integrating institutional reform, an overhaul of the electoral framework, and strengthened civic education, will ensure the stability necessary for a vibrant democracy in Madagascar, capable of overcoming crises and divisions. The legitimacy of such a process lies in the participation of all, in optimal transparency, and in a collective will to eradicate any form of failure that could jeopardize the country’s future. Key Issues in Reforming the Electoral Process in Madagascar in 2026

⏳ Challenges to be Addressed

🔑 Priority Actions

What are the main electoral risks identified for 2026?

The risks concern the manipulation of appointments, the lack of transparency in the electoral process, and the fragility of institutions, all of which can compromise the credibility of future elections.

What measures should civil society and international actors prioritize to guarantee stability? It is essential to open an inclusive dialogue, strengthen independent election monitoring, and support the overhaul of the electoral framework within a context of transparency and increased citizen participation.

Why is civic education crucial in this crisis?

Civic education helps to raise awareness of the electoral process, combat disinformation, and increase participation, which is vital for the legitimacy of elections.

How can the role of international actors promote stability in Madagascar?

By providing their expertise, offering financial and technical support for the reform, and ensuring independent monitoring, they can contribute to establishing a robust democratic framework.