COMOROS President Azali Assoumani has denied allegations that he plans to hand over power to his son, Nour El Fath, after his term ends in 2029. Assoumani, who came to power in 1999 through a coup and has since won four elections, most recently in 2024, clarified his remarks after opposition leaders and critics accused him of paving the way for a ‘family succession.’
During a speech on the island of Moheli earlier this week, Assoumani reportedly told supporters, ‘I will place my son to replace me as head of the state and the party.’ The comments sparked a backlash, particularly from opposition groups who have already rejected his 2024 election victory, citing widespread irregularities.
However, in a statement issued late Friday on Facebook, the president’s office rejected the interpretation that he intended to position Nour El Fath as his successor. ‘The government wishes to emphasise that at no time did President Azali speak of a possible succession of his son Nour El Fath, as the head of the state,’ the statement said.
‘Family succession’ denied
The president’s office further explained that Assoumani’s reference to ‘a child’ was a cultural expression common in Comoros, where all citizens are often referred to as ‘children.’ The statement added, ‘He instead spoke of ‘a child’ who would succeed him, without necessarily speaking of his own offspring.’
Assoumani has previously rejected the concept of ‘family succession,’ stressing that the country’s leadership should adhere to constitutional norms. Under Comoros’ current constitution, the presidency rotates every 10 years among the country’s three main islands—Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Moheli. Nour El Fath, therefore, would not be eligible to succeed his father unless the constitution is amended.
The president’s office reiterated that any successor would likely come from the island of Anjouan, in line with the rotation system.
Controversy over cabinet powers
Despite the president’s denial, critics have raised concerns about the growing influence of Nour El Fath in Comoros’ political affairs. Assoumani has appointed his son as coordinator of government affairs, granting him sweeping powers over the cabinet.
This move has drawn criticism from opposition parties, which accuse Assoumani of consolidating power within his family. The allegations come amid heightened tensions following this month’s parliamentary elections, which saw the ruling party secure a decisive victory. Opposition groups boycotted the elections or dismissed the results as fraudulent.
A history of political turmoil
The Comoros archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean and home to around 800,000 people, has long been plagued by political instability. Since gaining independence from France in 1975, the country has experienced about 20 coups or attempted coups.
Assoumani, who first seized power in a military coup in 1999, has maintained a firm grip on the nation’s politics. His latest election win in 2024 was marred by accusations of vote manipulation, further eroding trust in the country’s democratic institutions.
Constitutional challenges ahead
Any potential constitutional amendments to alter the island rotation system or extend presidential powers are likely to face significant resistance. Critics argue that such changes would undermine the fragile balance of power among the islands and further entrench authoritarian rule.
The opposition has called on the international community to monitor developments in Comoros closely, urging transparency in governance and adherence to constitutional principles.
As the debate over leadership succession intensifies, President Assoumani’s remarks have cast a spotlight on broader concerns about governance and political stability in Comoros.
