Comoros Opposition Denounces Legislative Election Results Amid Fraud Claims

The Comoros opposition has rejected the legislative election results, citing “gross fraud” and a boycott of the polls. Accusations include ballot box stuffing and irregular vote counts. The ruling CRC party was reported to have won a majority of seats, and President Assoumani dismissed fraud allegations, contending the opposition must substantiate their claims. The next round of voting is set for February 16, 2024, with opposition leaders opting not to participate.

In the Comoros archipelago, opposition leaders have formally rejected the results of the recent legislative elections, which were characterized by a significant boycott from opponents. Allegations of widespread fraud, including ballot stuffing and discrepancies between registered voters and votes cast, were highlighted by Daoud Abdallah Mohamed, leader of the United Opposition coalition and former interior minister. He proclaimed that the elections were deeply flawed, undermining their legitimacy.

The independent electoral commission of Anjouan, the archipelago’s most impoverished and densely inhabited island, reported that twelve candidates from the ruling Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros (CRC) party emerged victorious. These candidates allegedly secured between 60 and 100 percent of the votes, despite claims of electoral misconduct, and the commission recorded a voter turnout of 70 percent.

Notably, an electoral observer remarked on the unusual voting patterns observed in Anjouan, noting that while the turnout appeared low, ballot boxes seemed to fill rapidly. The minister responsible for elections, Fakridine Mahamoud, did not provide comments regarding these serious allegations. Furthermore, several constituencies on the island of Moheli were reported to have only single candidates from the ruling party after an opponent withdrew from the race shortly thereafter.

President Azali Assoumani, who has held power since 2016, rejected claims of electoral improprieties, stating, “It is not the first time the opposition has denounced elections. Now, it is up to them to prove their denunciations.” A subsequent election round is slated for February 16, with Mohamed indicating that the United Opposition intends to abstain from participation.

The recent legislative elections in Comoros have sparked significant controversy and accusations of systematic fraud from opposition leaders. The opposition’s decision to boycott the elections was rooted in concerns over transparency and fairness. The situation sheds light on the ongoing political instability and tension within the island nation, particularly regarding aspects of electoral integrity and governance under the current administration.

In summary, the opposition in Comoros has decisively rejected the election results, citing accusations of fraud and a lack of transparency. The ruling party claimed substantial victories, but these assertions are met with skepticism amidst allegations of foul play. The upcoming election round raises concerns about the future of democratic processes in Comoros as opposition leaders vow to abstain from further participation.

Original Source: www.barrons.com