“Let your love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good” (Romans 12:9). Message from the Episcopal Conference of Madagascar to the Catholic faithful, to the leaders and officials of the nation, to young Malagasy people without distinction, to all our compatriots, and to all people of good will.

Peace be with you!

We, the bishops of Madagascar, your fathers and pastors, have gathered here in Antananarivo, as we do every year, from 4 to 14 November 2025, and we address the following message to all of you, dear daughters and sons:

1. We are still living in the Jubilee Year of Hope; many efforts have been made in several dioceses. Prayer, pilgrimages and conversion initiatives have been particularly significant this year. A highlight of our life of faith was the consecration of Madagascar to the Sacred Heart of Jesus (18 May 2025). The National Adult Days, organised in Morondava from 24 to 31 August 2025, went well. Youth Days were also held in several dioceses. It is always a joy for us to welcome new pastors to the Catholic Church: Bishop Marek Ochlak was installed as Bishop of Fenoarivo Atsinanana after being ordained in Poland, his native country. Bishop Mamiarisoa Modeste Randrianifahanana was appointed and ordained Auxiliary Bishop of Antananarivo. Most recently, the Pope appointed Bishop Jean Nicolas Rakotojaona as coadjutor archbishop of Fianarantsoa, called to become its future archbishop. Another historic event for our Church was the publication of the new translation of the Malagasy Catholic Bible (BMK) on 9 November 2025. The purpose of this translation is to help us better understand God's message. We therefore encourage you to read and live constantly by the Word of God. Let us give thanks to the Lord and always entrust to Him the life of the Church in Madagascar.

2. At the national level, we have all experienced the changes that have taken place as a result of the popular movement led by young people, which has resulted in the establishment of the current Government for the Refoundation of the Republic of Madagascar. It is precisely in this context that we are sending you this message.

The cup was full, the people exploded

3. As Fathers and Pastors, we cannot remain silent in the face of the political crisis that our country has just gone through and is still experiencing today. The Malagasy people could no longer bear the suffering caused by the lack of water and frequent power cuts, which are basic necessities, leading to street demonstrations. Added to this were endless corruption, abuse of power, and incompetence in public administration on the part of leaders whom the people had trusted to serve and protect them. Young people played a major role in these movements. The repression exercised by the security forces was not enough to stop their struggle. There were injuries, deaths and property damage. All this led to the intervention of the CAPSAT military. They came to protect the population and then took power. We keep those who lost their lives and their families in our prayers, and we support those who are still undergoing treatment or repairing the damage suffered.

4. These events clearly show that the Malagasy people, battered and weary, aspire to real change in the country and in its governance. What they want is social and public policy geared towards the common good and sustainable development, not misguided policies where leaders seek only their own interests and those of their allies. No sooner had the demonstration organised by young people begun than we, the Bishops of Madagascar, issued a statement on 26 September 2025, reiterating what we had already denounced in the past about the evils that plague the nation. These root causes were highlighted by young people in public squares, supported by their fellow campaigners.

The need for radical change in the way politics is conducted

5. Change was what the people truly wanted and demanded. However, there is already concern that the current process is straying from the deep aspirations of young people and the people as a whole. Many fear the return of the old practices and actors that plunged the country into crisis, especially in political and economic terms. We are also concerned about the presence of people who are paid to undermine or sabotage the much-hoped-for change by sowing disorder in society. We must therefore remain vigilant. We constantly remind our leaders to place the reforms demanded by the people at the top of their agenda. The bad practices that led the country to the collapse and extreme poverty we know today must be eradicated. It is the suffering of the people that must be addressed first and foremost, not the interests of a minority. The Malagasy people must no longer be like landowners begging for their share, but must finally benefit from genuine, fair and sustainable development.

6. The strength and determination of young people, their patriotism, were clearly evident in their demands. However, we must not forget the fundamental Malagasy values in the way these demands are expressed (in terms of language, gestures and attitudes), particularly respect for elders and leaders. We must also recognise that implementing the changes demanded and the promises made will take time. A firm decision is needed to break with old bad habits. This concerns not only young people, but all citizens. We reaffirm that violence and revenge, in any form, can never lead to development or bring peace and stability. The way forward is through reconciliation, communion, truth and mercy. For justice for crimes committed, theft or acts of corruption in any form must not be confused with a spirit of political revenge.

To you, political leaders and actors

7. As our country faces this crucial new phase, we would like to remind you, as we have always done, that Madagascar needs a clear, sustainable and effective development plan that can be implemented immediately. It is the very nature of politics that must be profoundly transformed and reviewed: it must always be a service to the people, oriented towards the pursuit of the common good, especially in these difficult times, in accordance with the true meaning of the word “politics”. Inclusive national dialogue, starting from the grassroots level, is necessary to move in this direction, in order to prepare for a stable and solid state. The urgent priorities of the people must be brought to the fore, distinguishing between short-term and long-term issues. The two years planned for the transition period must be respected. One of the major weaknesses in Madagascar's development to date has been the lack of mutual listening and trust. Let us be aware of this fact.

8. Based on the demands of the people, we expect you, our leaders, to focus on essential needs: electricity, water, roads and education. In addition, the priorities of the new leaders must be a health service accessible to all, general security to protect the population from bandits, and the maintenance and construction of national, regional and local roads to enable farmers to transport their products to the major cities and, conversely, to ensure the availability of basic necessities in all localities. The austerity policy advocated by the new regime must be effectively implemented. To this end, the new leaders must set concrete and tangible examples: special privileges such as fuel allowances and exorbitant allowances enjoyed by officials of the former regime must be abolished immediately. In this way, the Malagasy people will finally be able to free themselves from the extreme poverty that has been imposed on them for too long.

9. We pray constantly for you, our leaders, in accordance with the recommendation of Holy Scripture (cf. 1 Tim 2:2). What our times need are leaders with the heart of parents (Raiamandreny), who fear God, who are compassionate towards the suffering of the Malagasy people and who are animated by a sincere love for them. In this way, they will be able to give their best to the nation, according to the words of Jesus: “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children...” (Lk 11:13). The people, eager for a true renewal, expect courageous and honest leaders who are able to stand firm in the truth, even in the face of those around them. Leaders who are capable of sharing responsibilities and power, of trusting their colleagues, and of watching over all regions of the country fairly. No country has ever prospered when power and authority are concentrated in the hands of a few or in the big cities alone. Leaders are called upon to manage the nation's wealth fairly for the good of the people, not to exploit it for their own personal gain. Let us dismantle the networks that consider Madagascar their private property: ‘The people are not fooled; what lasts always comes to light in the end.’

10. Finally, we make an urgent appeal to you, politicians: put an end to the politics that are destroying the nation! Put an end to the politics of plunder and the pursuit of power for power's sake, as well as the greed for national wealth. Do not manipulate the fervour and desire for renewal of young people and the people, who are eager to rebuild their history. As Scripture says: ‘Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good’ (Rom 12:9). It is the duty of those in charge of the state to keep hope alive in the hearts of young people through honest, disinterested education and teaching programmes, far from all traps. It is also your responsibility to create and promote jobs and projects that guarantee their future. All those involved in the country's education system are invited to collaborate in this effort: the Church, schools, associations, artists, journalists and other members of society.

For us, the people

11. The people too must change their mentality and convert. It is not right to always expect everything from leaders and those in charge; some things depend on us and are within our reach. Everyone must recognise and fulfil their responsibilities in defence of the common good. The eradication of corruption, which has become a way of life contrary to the voice of conscience and which kills it, is a task to which all must contribute together. We must have the courage to stand firm against this scourge, especially those of us who have received various forms of religious education. May those who call themselves disciples of Christ, ‘the Way, the Truth and the Life’ (Jn 14:6), be at the forefront of this fight. Let us always remember the words of Jesus: ‘The truth will set you free’ (Jn 8:32); let us not allow ourselves to be manipulated in any way.

Dear young people,

12. Madagascar continues to count on you for the profound renewal to which it ardently aspires. Despite your fears and concerns about the future, despite society's often negative view of you, your commitment to the nation has given rise to a new vision. We see confidence and hope in the great popular movement that you have led. Hold fast and remain united until the end. It is on you that the hope for a new life for society and for the nation rests, based on what you have already begun. Unfortunately, many of your elders have strayed onto the paths of politics and economics that do not seek the good of the people, thus leading the country to its current ruin. Your fresh perspective can bring new life to Madagascar. However, do not be overconfident, but accept that you are young people who need support and guidance as you journey through life. You are the future of the nation: do not allow yourselves to be corrupted; learn to discern truth from falsehood. Learn from life and set clear goals to guide your path, both in your personal life and in your collective commitment. You are educated and full of good will, but it is the heart of man that reveals his true wisdom: ‘A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart’ (Lk 6:45)3.

Our hope is never in vain.

13. This is the conviction that this Jubilee Year leaves us with, Pilgrims of Hope. Even if what we endure as families or as a nation is difficult, even if the real change we hope for requires time, perseverance and patience, we remain a people of hope. This hope urges us to stand firm and take up our responsibilities, inspired by trust in the One who is the source of all Christian hope: Jesus Christ, who died and rose again to live forever, who always opens new paths for us. So, “rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, persevere in prayer” (Rom 12:12).

14. We pray especially for you, young people, as we approach the celebration of the 40th World Youth Day, which will take place on the Solemnity of Christ the King. Through the voice of Pope Leo XIV, the Church sends you once again on mission, with this theme: ‘And you also will bear witness to me, because you have been with me from the beginning’ (Jn 15:27). We are already preparing for WYD MADA XI, which will take place in Toamasina in 2026. This is a great opportunity for the Church to accompany and educate young people while strengthening their communion and solidarity.

15. Let us unite and raise our prayers together for Madagascar, our homeland, with the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Madagascar, Saint Joseph, Patron Saint of the Universal Church, and the Malagasy saints and blessed. With them, we continue to entrust Madagascar to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, our pledge of hope. May the path of renewal that we are undertaking together as one family never stray from God's will.

We, your Raiamandreny Bishops, pray for you and bless you.

Done at Antananarivo, 11 November 2025

Memorial of St Martin of Tours

The Bishops of Madagascar

His Excellency Marie Fabien Samuelin RAHARILAMBONIAINA, Bishop of Morondava, President of the Episcopal Conference of Madagascar
His Excellency Jean Pascal ANDRIANTSOAVINA, Bishop of Antsirabe, Vice President
His Excellency Jean Claude RAKOTOARISOA, Bishop of Miarinarivo, Secretary General
His Excellency Cardinal Désiré TSARAHAZANA, Archbishop of Toamasina
His Excellency Filgence RABEMAHAFALY, Archbishop of Fianarantsoa
His Excellency Nicolas RAKOTOJAONA, Coadjutor Archbishop of Fianarantsoa
His Excellency Jean de Dieu RAOELISON, Archbishop of Antananarivo
His Excellency Benjamin Marc RAMAROSON, Archbishop of Antsiranana
His Excellency Gustavo BOMBIN ESPINO, Archbishop of Tulear
His Excellency Gabriel RANDRIANANTENAINA, Bishop of Tsiroanomandidy
His Excellency Georges Varkey PUTHIYAKULANGARA, Bishop of Port-Bergé
His Excellency Marcellin RANDRIAMAMONJY, Bishop of Farafangana
His Excellency Herivonjilalaina Orthasie Marcellin, Bishop of Ambatondrazaka
His Excellency Marek OCHLAK, Bishop of Fénérive East
His Excellency Rosario VELLA, Bishop of Moramanga
His Excellency Jean Désiré RAZAFINIRINA, Bishop of Morombe
His Excellency Clément Herizo RAKOTOASIMBOLA, Bishop of Maintirano
His Excellency Fidelis RAKOTONARIVO, Bishop of Ambositra
His Excellency José Alfredo CAIRES DE NOBREGA, Bishop of Mananjary
His Excellency Fulgence RAZAKARIVONY, Bishop of Ihosy
His Excellency Zygmunt ROBASZKIEWICZ, Bishop of Mahajanga
His Excellency Donatien Francis Randriamala, Bishop of Ambanja
His Excellency Luc Olivier Razafitsimialona, Bishop of Tolagnaro
His Excellency Mamiarisoa Modeste Randrianifahanana
His Excellency Vincent Rakotzafy, Bishop Emeritus of Tolagnaro
His Excellency Raymond RAZAKARIVONY, Bishop Emeritus of Miarinarivo
His Excellency Odon Marie Arsène RAZANAKOLONA, Archbishop Emeritus of Antananarivo
His Excellency Fulgence RABEONY, Archbishop Emeritus of Toliary
His Excellency Gaetano DI PIERRO, Bishop Emeritus of Farafangana
His Excellency Michel MALO, Bishop Emeritus of Antsiranana
His Excellency Armand TOASY, Bishop Emeritus of Port-Bergé

¹ See CEM Message of 26/09/2025: ‘Our country is truly sick. On several occasions and in various ways, we, the bishops, have spoken of the evils afflicting the Malagasy people’ — a reminder of the warning already issued in our 2023-2024 Message.
The CEM’s Episcopal Justice and Peace Commission has also repeatedly emphasised that the country is sick (cf. Message of 29/08/2025).↑

² Cf. FRANCIS, Fratelli tutti, no. 176; CEM, The sufferings of the Malagasy people break the heart of Jesus, 15 November 2024, no. 05. ↑

³ Cf. FRANCIS, Dilexit nos, lah.11. 29. ↑