The Conference of Bishops of Madagascar (CEM) has broken its silence. In a message addressed "to all citizens without exception," the prelates say they can no longer remain silent in the face of the wave of crimes sweeping the country.
Describing the current security situation as a "climate of terror," Monsignor Jean Pascal Andriantsoavina, vice-president of the Conference of Bishops of Madagascar, spoke on behalf of the episcopal conference. With a grave tone and stern expression, he conveyed the bishops' message to all citizens regarding the surge in violence and homicides reported in recent days.
"In this difficult period, we bishops cannot remain indifferent to the painful reality and cases of homicide occurring here and there, whose perpetrators remain unknown," he stated.
The bishops' message serves as a call for awareness about the importance of preserving life. The CEM also calls for accountability regarding citizen protection and the pursuit of those responsible for these crimes. Addressing state leaders, Monsignor Andriantsoavina declared: "To you, leaders, we acknowledge the efforts you are making to address the people's suffering. But let actions be more numerous than words, lest evil gain further ground."
Recent cases of disappearances and discovery of lifeless bodies have created a climate of fear. In response, political authorities have multiplied their statements, beginning with Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, the head of state. Without ambiguity, the occupant of Iavoloha links these violent cases to political destabilization aimed at weakening institutions and sowing chaos in society.
Transparency
In its message to the nation, the episcopal conference also states: "The situation we are experiencing raises questions. Who benefits from the path we Malagasy are currently following?"
However, the prelates maintain that the population, particularly the most vulnerable, is affected by the current situation. This is why they call for more concrete action from state authorities—an expectation that aligns with declarations made by civil entities last week.
In a statement published Wednesday, the Antananarivo branch of the Union of Teacher-Researchers and Researcher-Teachers (Seces) urged authorities "not to be satisfied with declarations about the supposed objectives of those behind these acts."
The union added that "the population expects the current authorities, a military authority at that, to eradicate these acts at their root, not merely to apprehend small fry."
In the message delivered by its vice-president yesterday, the Conference of Bishops of Madagascar also demands transparency from authorities regarding the current security situation. "Let there be transparency about the true causes of this climate of terror, so that these facts do not fade into oblivion as so often happens," stated Monsignor Andriantsoavina.
Although those in power affirm the thesis of political conspiracy and insist that investigations are ongoing, few concrete facts have been shared by authorities on the subject. Beyond supporting the state's thesis, embracing transparency could also reassure the population and ease tensions. While awaiting the state's clarification on the shadows surrounding recent crimes, the CEM sends a message of appeasement.
"To you, citizens, do not let yourselves be swept away or driven to take life, for life is precious. Let us all be defenders of life within our families. In no way can the murder of children or vulnerable persons be a solution to the profound poverty we are experiencing," the prelates affirmed, calling for vigilance "against those who profit from the current disorder to sow division and disorganize social life."
Linked to the surge in insecurity, acts of mob justice are also multiplying. In most cases, they stem from mere hearsay or even discrimination. Apparently aware that the situation risks triggering an escalation of violence and profound social disorganization, the bishops warn against abuses such as lynchings, unfounded accusations, and desires for revenge, which risk aggravating the crisis.