Comoros Holds Parliamentary Elections Amid Accusations of Irregularities

Comoros is conducting elections for its 33-seat parliament amidst allegations of election irregularities following President Azali Assoumani’s re-election. Approximately 338,000 voters are registered, with nearly 100 candidates approved to run. Assoumani’s son has been granted significant authority, raising concerns of nepotism. Opposition parties are divided over participation in the elections, with results expected by Friday.

Voters in Comoros are participating in parliamentary elections for the country’s 33-seat legislative body, following the controversial re-election of President Azali Assoumani a year prior. The ruling party has denied allegations of significant electoral irregularities, which the opposition claims characterized the previous electoral process. Polling stations opened early on Sunday, with approximately 338,000 registered voters. The last parliamentary elections were held in January 2020, and nearly 100 candidates have been authorized by the Supreme Court to contest in the current elections. Assoumani, who has been in power since a 1999 coup, faces accusations of exhibiting authoritarian tendencies and is suspected of grooming his eldest son, Nour El-Fath, to succeed him post-2029. Despite calls for a boycott from some opposition factions, such as Juwa, others have opted to participate in the elections to expose the regime’s vulnerabilities. Results are anticipated to be announced by Friday.

The Comoros is an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean with a complex political history characterized by coups and political instability. Since assuming power in 1999 through a coup, President Azali Assoumani has survived various electoral challenges, winning multiple elections amid accusations of irregularities. The political landscape is fragmented, with numerous opposition groups responding differently to Assoumani’s continued rule and plans regarding succession, particularly involving his son, who has recently been granted substantial governmental powers.

The elections in Comoros reflect deep-seated political tensions surrounding President Assoumani’s administration and the opposition’s struggle for legitimacy in the political process. As the country approaches the announcement of election results, the implications for both the ruling party and the opposition will potentially redefine the archipelago’s political dynamics.

Original Source: www.merimbulanewsweekly.com.au