What the study found
The article argues that Madagascar’s political crisis is tied to a lack of political virtue, a concept drawn from Montesquieu that the authors describe as central to justice and democracy. It says that executive power dominates, the judiciary is submissive, and the legislature is partisan, which contributes to public distrust and vigilantism.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that justice and virtue are inseparable for the sustainability of the Republic. They suggest that renewing the republic requires stronger ethical governance and territorial restructuring, including decentralization and civic education.
What the researchers tested
The study used a doctrinal and documentary analysis of constitutional texts and institutional reports. It examined Madagascar’s constitutional separation of powers and related institutions in the context of the country’s political crisis.
What worked and what didn't
The analysis found a systematic dominance of the executive branch. It also identified a submissive judiciary and a partisan legislature, alongside popular distrust that the abstract says can lead to vigilantism. The authors propose reform of political parties, effective decentralization through a local parliament, and stronger civic education.
What to keep in mind
The summary provided here is based only on the abstract, so detailed evidence and limitations are not described. The article presents normative recommendations, but the abstract does not report empirical testing of those recommendations.
Key points
- Madagascar is described as facing a major political crisis of confidence despite constitutional separation of powers.
- The authors link the crisis to a lack of political virtue, using Montesquieu’s concept as their framework.
- A doctrinal and documentary analysis found executive dominance, a submissive judiciary, and a partisan legislature.
- The abstract says these institutional problems feed public distrust and vigilantism.
- The authors recommend reforming political parties, decentralizing power through a local parliament, and strengthening civic education.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Executive dominance and weak institutions undermine trust in Madagascar
- Authors:
- Sydrique MIARAKA
- Publication date:
- 2026-04-15
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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