Comoros conducted a parliamentary election on Sunday, largely boycotted by opposition parties alleging authoritarianism under President Assoumani. Approximately 330,000 out of 850,000 registered voters are expected to participate, with predictions of low turnout due to disillusionment with democracy. Assoumani’s administration has faced criticism for electoral integrity and political repression.
Comoros held a parliamentary election on Sunday, which was boycotted by some opposition leaders. They accused President Azali Assoumani and his ruling party of becoming increasingly authoritarian and raised concerns regarding the electoral integrity. The election will fill 33 seats in the legislature, with results expected next week from the national electoral commission.
Approximately 330,000 individuals are registered to vote in Comoros, which has a total population of 850,000. However, opposition leaders predict a low voter turnout due to widespread discontent with the democratic process. Assoumani’s party secured 20 out of 24 contested seats in the previous 2020 elections.
Opposition parties labeled the 2020 elections as a “masquerade”, claiming they were neither free nor fair. Assoumani also recently secured a new five-year presidential term in an election last year that was deemed fraudulent by opposition members, leading to public protests. The Juwa Party, led by former President Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, was among those boycotting this election.
Comoros consists of three islands off the eastern coast of Africa, near Madagascar, and has faced numerous military coups since achieving independence from France in 1975. Assoumani, a former military officer, initially took control in 1999 and has served multiple terms since, enacting constitutional changes in 2018 to extend his presidency despite previous agreements requiring presidential rotation among the islands.
The Africa Center for Strategic Studies reports that Assoumani’s presidency is characterized by increased political oppression and a lack of competitive elections. Despite adverse weather conditions, such as Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi, authorities confirmed that voting would proceed as planned.
The parliamentary election in Comoros, marked by opposition boycotts and claims of authoritarianism, reflects growing political tension. With significant past controversies surrounding election integrity and voter discontent, the outcome could further impact the nation’s democratic processes. Assoumani’s continuous hold on power amid allegations of fraud raises concerns over the future of governance in Comoros.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
