Comoros Voters Head to Polls Amid Allegations of Electoral Misconduct

Comoros is holding elections for its 33-seat parliament amid accusations of electoral misconduct against President Azali Assoumani. Approximately 338,000 citizens are registered to vote, with nearly 100 candidates in the running. Opposition groups express skepticism over the election’s integrity, while some factions advocate for a boycott. Results are expected by Friday.

On Sunday, voters in Comoros are participating in elections for a 33-seat parliament, with around 338,000 registered voters mobilized to cast their ballots. This electoral process follows the contentious re-election of President Azali Assoumani, which opposition groups claim was fraught with significant irregularities. The ruling party has refuted these allegations, maintaining the legitimacy of the previous election. Since the last parliamentary elections in January 2020, almost 100 candidates have been nominated by the Supreme Court to run for office.

President Azali Assoumani has ruled Comoros since seizing power in 1999 through a coup, subsequently securing three elections. His leadership style has drawn criticism from opponents, who accuse him of authoritarian tendencies, and there are growing concerns that he is preparing his eldest son, Nour El-Fath, to succeed him after his term concludes in 2029. In 2024, Assoumani empowered his son significantly by assigning him the coordination of all government affairs. This election also sees calls for participation amid boycott pleas from some opposition factions, notably the Juwa party, led by former President Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, who has faced imprisonment since 2022.

The elections in Comoros represent a crucial moment for the political landscape of the nation. As President Assoumani continues to face criticism from various opposition parties, the outcome of this parliamentary election may significantly impact his governance. The anticipated results by the end of the week will shed light on whether the ruling party maintains its grip on power amidst growing unrest and dissent.

Original Source: www.muswellbrookchronicle.com.au