Comoros Parliament Elections Under Scrutiny Amidly Political Tensions

Voters in Comoros are electing a new parliament with 33 seats amid allegations of electoral irregularities from the opposition following President Azali Assoumani’s contentious re-election. Approximately 338,000 citizens are registered to vote, as various political parties navigate internal conflicts regarding participation in this election, with results anticipated by Friday.

Voters in Comoros have commenced casting their ballots to elect the nation’s 33-seat parliament, following the controversial re-election of President Azali Assoumani last year. The election is taking place amidst allegations from opposition factions that the previous electoral process was fraught with irregularities, a claim that representatives of the ruling party have categorically denied. Approximately 338,000 registered voters are participating in the polls, which opened early on Sunday, marking a significant political event for the Indian Ocean archipelago.

Comoros has not held parliamentary elections since January 2020, and this election is critical given the ongoing political tensions in the country. President Azali Assoumani has been in power since 1999 and has faced accusations of authoritarian behavior. Furthermore, his opponents suspect that he is positioning his eldest son, Nour El-Fath, to take over after his term concludes in 2029. In 2024, Assoumani allotted his son extensive powers to oversee government operations, leading to increased scrutiny from various opposition parties.

As elections proceed, the political atmosphere in Comoros remains charged, with some opposition parties advocating for a boycott while others aim to highlight the government’s shortcomings through participation. The outcomes of this election, expected by Friday, could significantly impact the political landscape and power dynamics in Comoros, particularly regarding President Assoumani’s regime and his family’s political ambitions.

Original Source: www.naroomanewsonline.com.au