Comoros President Denies Succession Plan Amid Concerns Over Power Consolidation

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President Azali Assoumani of Comoros has dismissed claims that he plans to hand over power to his son, Nour El Fath, despite growing concerns over the latter's increasing influence in government. Assoumani, who first gained power in a 1999 coup and has since won four elections, has faced criticism for placing his son in charge of coordinating government affairs and granting him significant authority over the cabinet.

This move has raised suspicions of a potential dynastic succession in a country with a history of political instability. Comoros, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean with a population of approximately 800,000, has experienced around 20 coups or attempted coups since gaining independence from France in 1975. The presidency is constitutionally mandated to rotate among the three islands—Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli—every 10 years to ensure balanced representation. Any attempt to bypass this arrangement would require a constitutional amendment, likely fueling further political tensions.

Critics argue that the concentration of power in Nour El Fath's hands undermines democratic governance and raises questions about the transparency of Comoros' political system. Observers note that while Assoumani denies having succession plans, his actions suggest otherwise, particularly as his son wields sweeping powers unusual for a non-elected official.

Assoumani’s presidency has been marked by both significant challenges and achievements. He has overseen economic initiatives aimed at developing Comoros, but his tenure has also been marred by accusations of authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic norms. The growing speculation about a possible familial succession risks exacerbating divisions in a nation already fraught with political instability.

As the 10-year presidency rotation approaches its next transition, the people of Comoros and the international community will be closely monitoring Assoumani’s actions. Upholding constitutional provisions and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power will be critical for the nation’s stability and democratic future. Failure to do so could plunge Comoros into yet another cycle of political uncertainty, further straining its fragile institutions.