Comoros Elections Hindered by Opposition Boycotts and Logistical Issues
The Comoros held elections marred by opposition boycotts and logistical delays. Nour El Fath Azali, the president’s son, is running amid claims of a lack of transparency. Critics allege growing authoritarianism under President Azali, resulting in civil unrest and allegations of fraud during the January elections.
The Comoros islands, situated in the Indian Ocean, held polls on Sunday for parliamentary elections. Many opposition factions boycotted the voting process, citing a lack of transparency in the election procedures. Nour El Fath Azali, the son of President Azali Assoumani, is contesting a seat near the capital, Moroni, as the nation navigates its electoral challenges.
Several voting stations experienced delays due to the late arrival of voting materials, affecting the planned 7:00 am opening. An observer noted that officials resorted to temporary solutions, including makeshift booths lacking privacy. The polls were scheduled to conclude at 4:00 pm (1300 GMT), amidst complaints from voters about incomplete voting processes.
Nour El Fath Azali, appointed secretary general in July 2024, has seen his powers expanded, effectively positioning him as a de facto prime minister. His father, Azali Assoumani, a former military leader, was re-elected in January 2024 amidst accusations of authoritarianism and allegations of electoral fraud, leading to civil unrest.
In response to the election, many opposition candidates chose to participate to avert a repeat of the 2020 legislative vote boycott, which allowed Azali’s ruling party, the Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros (CRC), to dominate the last parliament. Currently, the CRC faces limited competition in several constituencies.
Approximately 340,000 registered voters will elect thirty-three members of parliament through a two-round system, with the second round scheduled for February 16. Azali officially secured 57 percent of the vote in January 2024, extending his presidency until 2029, despite protests and count challenges from opponents who argued the process was fraught with irregularities.
The recent elections in the Comoros were marked by significant opposition boycotts and logistical issues at polling stations. Azali Assoumani’s leadership continues to face scrutiny, compounded by criticisms of growing authoritarianism and allegations of election manipulation. With many voters disenchanted, the possibility of future unrest remains palpable as the political landscape evolves.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
