Comoros re-elects former coup leader Azali Assoumani for presidency

Former coup leader Azali Assoumani gets re-elected in Comoros after a controversial presidential vote marked by allegations of fraud and low voter turnout

In a controversial presidential vote marked by allegations of fraud and low voter turnout, former coup leader Azali Assoumani gets re-elected in the Comoros Tuesday.

The head of the electoral commission, Idrissa Said Ben Ahmada, declared Assoumani the winner with 62.97% of the vote, dismissing opposition claims of ballot rigging.

Despite winning a third consecutive term, the 65-year-old’s victory lacked widespread enthusiasm, evident in the meager 16.3% voter turnout out of the country’s 340,000 eligible voters. The opposition decried the election, releasing a joint statement before the official results, accusing the regime of ballot-stuffing and fraud.

Assoumani, the current chairperson of the African Union, hailed the victory as a pivotal moment for the country, emphasizing the consolidation of democracy.

Acknowledging the history of coups in Comoros since its independence from France in 1975, he urged competitors to follow legal channels and play fair.

The opposition, however, expressed anger, alleging interference by the regime and certain institutions in the electoral process. Candidate Issa Salim Adillah, who secured second place with 20.26%, warned of an “action plan” to be revealed at the right moment.

International observers, contradicting opposition claims, reported that the election proceeded peacefully. The Supreme Court’s validation of the results on Sunday would extend Assoumani’s rule until 2029, with a mandate to lead the country towards progress and unity.

A former army chief-of-staff, Colonel Assoumani first came to power in a coup in 1999, initiating a series of military takeovers in the country’s history.

Despite accusations of authoritarianism during his rule, he highlighted his government’s achievements, including infrastructure development, during the recent campaign.

As Comoros navigates its political landscape, the re-elected leader emphasizes the importance of a united, peaceful country, robust institutions and adherence to democratic principles for progress.

Source: AFP