Senate: The High Constitutional Court formally acknowledges the end of the term and rules out any possible extension

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

At the heart of Madagascar’s institutional landscape, the recent ruling by the High Constitutional Court (HCC) marks a decisive turning point. In 2026, faced with the political deadlock created by the indefinite postponement of the senatorial elections initially scheduled for December 2025, this decision unequivocally confirms the end of the Senate’s term. In two successive opinions, the HCC affirmed that the parliamentary term, constitutionally fixed at five years, is inviolable and cannot be extended, even in a context of crisis or inaction. This affirmation is consistent with a defense of representative democracy, emphasizing that only exceptional circumstances—such as war, invasion, or insurrection—could legally justify an extension of the senatorial term.

This stance is not only a victory for constitutional jurisprudence, but above all a necessity to preserve legitimacy and institutional stability in the face of a fragile political situation. The High Constitutional Court’s decision comes at a strategic crossroads for several actors, including the Head of State and Parliament, who are confronted with the imperative need to respect the rule of law. The end of the mandate following the precise date of January 18, 2026, at midnight, led to the immediate cessation of the Senate’s legislative functions, putting an end to a period of tension and political hesitation. The continuation of the process, under the watchful eye of the national and international community, must now be organized around a new institutional framework, founded on legality and transparency. The resolution of this crisis, while a victory for constitutional principles, also raises the crucial question of democratic transition in a context where the absence of regular elections could further destabilize Madagascar’s fledgling democracy.