SMGD case: Former Director General of CNaPS imprisoned, several executives under judicial supervision

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

Since the beginning of November 2026, the SMGD affair has profoundly shaken the Malagasy political and judicial landscape, revealing the scale of the challenges related to the management of public funds and the fight against corruption. Following an in-depth investigation conducted by the Anti-Corruption Unit (PAC), several key figures, notably the former Director General of the CNaPS (National Social Security Fund), found themselves at the heart of a trial marked by a series of major judicial decisions, including the imprisonment of the former official and the placement under judicial supervision of several other influential executives. This highly publicized context highlights the need for a collective commitment to overcome the governance crises that undermine trust in Malagasy institutions. The initial revelations of the affair, dating back to 2025, had already raised serious concerns about potentially fraudulent practices in the management of loans contracted with the CNaPS, particularly those intended for municipal digital projects. These accusations were brought by civic actors and local officials, alerting the authorities to embezzlement and questionable procedures. The reactivation of the investigation in 2026, following new evidence, ultimately led to a detailed report on the responsibilities of each individual involved in this case, which contrasts transparency with opacity in the implementation of public policies. [//] Discover everything you need to know about the CNAPS, the National Council for Private Security Activities, its missions, regulations, and services.

The legal proceedings against the former Director General of the CNaPS (National Social Security Fund), Mamy Rakotondraibe, reveal a firm commitment from the Malagasy justice system to systematically hold key players accountable. Indeed, this monumental step in the fight against corruption in public administration aims to restore public trust and establish a strong precedent for accountability. Beyond simply being formally charged, the pretrial detention of Mamy Rakotondraibe underscores the increased seriousness of the alleged acts of abuse of power and embezzlement, estimated at over 11 billion ariary, related to a loan granted to SMGD, a municipal company responsible for managing digital projects in Antananarivo.

This trial, whose symbolic significance extends far beyond national borders, is part of a transparency initiative requiring collaboration between the judiciary, civil society, and political actors. Combating this form of financial crime is crucial for ensuring more ethical and responsible management, in favor of sustainable development. The implications of the trial also concern the credibility of public financial institutions, particularly the CNaPS (National Social Security Fund), whose mission is to safeguard social funds and guarantee the protection of citizens against all forms of abuse.

This video link illustrates the proceedings and the mobilization of the justice system in this case, highlighting the complexity of the cases and the magistrates’ determination to uphold the rule of law. The indictment of several officials, along with their judicial supervision, reflects a firm commitment to shedding light on potentially illicit practices and preventing future abuses in the management of public funds. If this case results in convictions, it could constitute a turning point in the fight against corruption in Madagascar and serve as an example for the continent as a whole.

Political and Social Impacts of the SMGD Case

Thierry Andriamananony

Under judicial supervision

Director General of SMGD, responsible for municipal digital projects

The SMGD case raises fundamental questions about the transparency of public borrowing and the compliance of financial procedures. The loss of confidence in the management of public funds is further exacerbated by the non-repayment of an 11 billion ariary loan, linked to a separate legal proceeding in the commercial court. This situation underscores the need to implement strengthened control mechanisms to prevent abuses and ensure that every stage of financial management complies with regulations. The credibility of the judiciary, by ensuring a fair and transparent trial, will be crucial in restoring the integrity of the system.

It should also be emphasized that this case is fueling a national debate on reforming the financial sector and establishing a more rigorous legislative framework to govern the management of public funds. To prevent future scandals, the involvement of independent oversight bodies and the creation of a national observatory for financial management appear to be essential measures to strengthen economic governance. The role of the justice system thus becomes central to consolidating transparency and preventing all forms of corruption.

Discover the CNAPS, the body responsible for regulating and controlling private security activities in France. Information, procedures, and news.

The human and institutional challenges of the trial in the SMGD case.

• This trial marks a decisive step in Madagascar’s commitment to establishing a strong rule of law, where justice cannot be biased by special interests. However, the prosecution of influential figures also carries risks of obstruction or pressure, which could compromise the fairness of the proceedings. The stability of Malagasy institutions must be based on a strong judicial independence, allowing the process to continue unabated.
• The challenges related to personnel management and internal reforms are considerable, however. The need to strengthen magistrates’ capacity to handle complex cases of financial mismanagement and abuse of power is paramount. Furthermore, the protection of witnesses and those involved in this fight is also crucial to ensure an investigation conducted in a calm and intimidation-free environment.
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOUFuRT4G1M

The case of Madagascar illustrates how political determination and civic will can converge to address major institutional challenges. Regular publication of the investigation results, transparency in the proceedings, and follow-up on recommendations will be essential to ensure that this step is not merely a superficial exercise, but a genuine driver of lasting change.

List of measures needed to strengthen the fight against corruption in 2026

🔍 Strengthening financial and operational control mechanisms ⚖️ Judicial empowerment and protection of magistrates 📊 Creation of an independent observatory for the management of public funds

Actions Taken

Expected Impacts

PAC Magistrates

Conducting thorough investigations, arrests, and indictments

Strengthening transparency and deterring illicit practices

Government