Opposition leaders vow to boycott Comoros parliamentary election

Comoros conducted a parliamentary election on January 12, 2025, where voters were called to elect members of the 33-seat legislature. This election occurred against a backdrop of allegations against President Azali Assoumani, concerning the lack of integrity in both this election and previous electoral processes. Almost 100 candidates, selected by the country's Supreme Court, contended for the vacant parliamentary seats. The voting followed Assoumani's reelection in 2024, which was marred by accusations of widespread electoral irregularities by the opposition, who claim the regime has become increasingly authoritarian. The canvassing day began with polling stations opening early, and approximately 338,000 registered voters started casting their ballots. While the ruling party, Assoumani's Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros, anticipates strong support, some opposition factions, including the Juwa party led by former President Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, called for a boycott. These parties accused the government of undermining democratic processes and contesting the credibility of elections, claiming that participating in the elections will only legitimize an unjust system. Additionally, history weighs heavily on the current situation; Assoumani first assumed power via a coup in 1999 and has since maintained control through various elections, many of which have been criticized for their lack of competitiveness and fairness. Critics fear that his administration aims to bolster the power of his son, Nour El-Fath, as a potential successor, thereby perpetuating a lineage of authoritarian governance. Despite calls for boycott, some candidates chose the electoral route to spotlight the flaws within the governing system, illustrating the internal divisions and varying strategies amidst dissatisfaction over the political climate. Observers noted that the tumultuous relationship between the government and opposition groups has intensified, raising concerns about voter turnout and overall civic participation in the election process.