Voters in Comoros head to the polls to elect a new parliament amid allegations of irregularities in previous elections. Approximately 338,000 voters are registered, with nearly 100 candidates running. Despite calls for a boycott by some opposition parties, various candidates are contesting the election, and results are expected by Friday.
Voters in Comoros are currently participating in elections for the nation’s 33-seat parliament following President Azali Assoumani’s controversial re-election last year. Approximately 338,000 citizens are eligible to cast their ballots, with polling stations having opened early on Sunday. The ruling party has faced criticism from opposition groups, who allege election irregularities, which officials reject. With an array of nearly 100 candidates selected by the Supreme Court, the political atmosphere remains charged with speculation regarding Assoumani’s future plans for succession.
Comoros, a small archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, has been under the rule of President Azali Assoumani since he seized power in a coup in 1999. Over the years, he has won three elections, though his leadership has been marred by accusations of authoritarianism and a consolidation of power, including the delegation of significant governmental duties to his son, Nour El-Fath. The current parliamentary elections are the first since January 2020, and political tensions have risen as some opposition parties, particularly Juwa, have encouraged boycotts of the electoral process.
As elections unfold in Comoros, the nation’s political scene remains tense amid allegations of authoritarian governance by President Assoumani. The outcome of this parliamentary election may significantly influence the country’s governance and Assoumani’s potential succession plans. The response from both the ruling party and opposition will undoubtedly shape the future political landscape over the coming weeks.
Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au
