Comoros President Azali Assoumani denied media reports suggesting he would hand over power to his son, Nour El Fath. The statements follow recent legislative elections contested by the opposition, which claimed electoral manipulation. Government officials clarified that Assoumani was speaking metaphorically regarding succession, while concerns over the growing influence of Nour El Fath persist amid claims of dynastic politics.
Comoros President Azali Assoumani has refuted claims made in the media regarding his intentions to transfer power to his son, Nour El Fath. This statement came shortly after his party secured victory in disputed legislative elections. At a press conference in Moroni, government spokesperson Mahamoud Salim Hafi declared that the president never indicated plans to bequeath authority to his son upon his term’s conclusion in 2029.
Hafi clarified that Assoumani’s previous remarks, which were misinterpreted, spoke metaphorically about his future successor, and not literally about his son. He explained that Assoumani referred to the concepts of three families: his political and governmental spheres, and his biological family. In 2029, a member of the party, not specifically Nour El Fath, will be designated to run for leadership based on party consensus.
Concerns persist regarding Nour El Fath’s rising political influence within Comoros. Appointed by Assoumani to coordinate government affairs, he has significant authority. He recently garnered 85% of the votes in his district during the legislative elections, prompting apprehensions over potential dynastic control in Comoros.
Despite the president’s disclosures, allegations regarding electoral misconduct remain prevalent. Critics denounce the legislative elections as manipulative, with the United Opposition coalition labeling it “the worst electoral farce of our half-century of independence.” Assoumani, previously a military coup leader, continues to dominate the political landscape, while a second voting round is approaching on February 16, boycotted by the opposition.
The controversy revolves around President Assoumani’s comments made during a speech, which were interpreted by the media as intentions to hand over power to his son. The political landscape of Comoros is affected by issues of leadership succession and accusations of electoral fraud. The ruling party’s recent electoral win raises questions about governance and potential dynastic politics, especially given the president’s tight hold over the power structure since a military coup in 1999. Nour El Fath’s appointments and public endorsements underscore concerns regarding his growing role in government affairs.
In summary, President Assoumani categorically denied any intentions to pass his power to his son, emphasizing a metaphorical approach when discussing succession. Despite this clarification, Nour El Fath’s political ascendancy and the context of contested elections have raised valid concerns about potential dynastic governance in Comoros. Ongoing opposition boycotts and allegations of manipulation further complicate the unfolding political dynamics as the country prepares for additional voting rounds.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
