Comoros Voters Elect New Parliament Amid Allegations of Electoral Irregularities
Voters in Comoros are electing the 33-seat parliament today, amid allegations of electoral irregularities following President Assoumani’s re-election last year. Approximately 338,000 registered voters are participating as nearly 100 candidates compete for parliamentary seats. Some opposition parties have called for a boycott, while others encourage participation to challenge the ruling regime. Results are expected by Friday.
As citizens of Comoros head to the polls, they are poised to elect members to the archipelago’s 33-seat parliament, nearly a year after President Azali Assoumani’s re-election, which was marred by allegations of widespread electoral irregularities. Election officials from the ruling party have dismissed these claims as unfounded. Approximately 338,000 individuals are registered to cast their votes today, following a significant gap since the last parliamentary elections in January 2020. The Supreme Court has approved nearly 100 candidates to vie for parliamentary seats during this election.
The political climate in Comoros has been tense, particularly due to the controversial presidency of Azali Assoumani, who has governed since seizing power through a coup in 1999. His rule has been characterized by claims of authoritarianism and nepotism, especially with the recent empowerment of his eldest son, Nour El-Fath, to oversee governmental coordination. The opposition, led by figures such as former President Ahmed Abdallah Sambi, has voiced concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process, prompting some parties to call for a boycott of the elections, while others advocate for participation to reveal systemic flaws in the current regime.
The parliamentary elections in Comoros will significantly shape the country’s political future amidst a backdrop of alleged irregularities and authoritarian practices perpetuated by the current administration. As citizens exercise their right to vote, the outcomes remain pivotal for both the ruling party and opposition factions. Expectations for results are high, with announcements anticipated by the end of the week, reflecting the electorate’s desire for change amidst ongoing concerns regarding governance.
Original Source: www.canberratimes.com.au
