Comoros President Azali Assoumani Sworn in for Fourth Term Amidst Controversy

On May 26, 2024, Comoros President Azali Assoumani was sworn in for his fourth term in office, following a disputed January election that sparked violent protests, resulting in one death and 25 injuries.

Assoumani, who has been in power since 1999, won the election with 63% of the vote, according to the election body. However, opposition leaders alleged voter fraud, claiming instances of ballot stuffing and voting being ended before the official closing time. The government denied these claims.

In his inauguration speech, Assoumani pledged to prioritize peace and 5% annual economic growth. He invited civil society, the opposition, and all political actors to put aside their differences in favor of peace and democracy. "Disputes after the elections are not a Commorian exception. I thank the Commorians for the renewed trust, I will not disappoint you," Assoumani said.

Comoros, an archipelago of three islands off the coast of Mozambique, has a population of approximately 800,000. The country has experienced around 20 coups or attempted coups since gaining independence from France in 1975. Assoumani first came to power through a coup in 1999 and has been re-elected multiple times, with constitutional reforms in 2018 allowing him to seek re-election in 2019.

Why this matters: The stability of Comoros is vital for regional peace and security, and the legitimacy of Assoumani's presidency will have far-reaching implications for the country's democratic institutions. If not addressed, the allegations of voter fraud and political tensions could lead to further unrest and instability in the region.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several African leaders, including Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso, along with counterparts from Madagascar, Guinea Bissau, Mozambique, and Angola. However, the opposition did not attend the event, and none of Assoumani's five presidential rivals have formally congratulated him on his victory.

Assoumani has been accused of creeping authoritarianism, and his arch-rival, ex-president Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, was handed a life sentence for high treason for allegedly selling passports. The president's commitment to economic growth is vital for the island nation, which has also been a significant source of irregular migration to the nearby French island of Mayotte.

The election results have sparked concerns about the country's stability, with the army having to put down the fighting, and protests have been regularly banned since then.

As Assoumani embarks on his fourth term, the focus will be on whether his pledges for peace and economic growth can be realized amidst the ongoing political tensions and allegations of voter fraud.

Key Takeaways

• Comoros President Azali Assoumani sworn in for 4th term after disputed election.
• Assoumani won with 63% of the vote, but opposition alleges voter fraud.
• President pledges to prioritize peace and 5% annual economic growth.
• Stability of Comoros is vital for regional peace and security.
• Allegations of voter fraud and political tensions could lead to further unrest.