Comoros: Incumbent president declared winner of elections March 26 /update 4

Event

Comoros' National Voting Commission (CENI) announced on Tuesday, March 26, that incumbent President Azali Assoumani received 60.77 percent of the vote in the March 24 presidential election, securing a second term. The main opposition candidate Mahamdou Ahamada, meanwhile, received 14.66 percent of the vote. Following the election, opposition leaders and civil society groups alleged that widespread voting irregularities took place and several international observers have expressed concern over the transparency and credibility of the vote. Twelve opposition candidates have called on supporters and the international community to protest the results and reject the electoral process.

Political demonstrations are possible in Moroni, Anjouan, and other Comorian cities over the coming days. Heightened security measures and transportation disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites. Clashes between supporters of President Assoumani, opposition members, and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Comoros held its presidential elections on March 24. Opposition parties since have denounced voting irregularities and related violent protests erupted in Anjouan and Moroni on March 24-25, resulting in at least one death.

Incumbent President Azali Assoumani ran for reelection against twelve other candidates. The Supreme Court previously rejected the candidacy of opposition leader Mohamed Ali Soilihi, who was regarded as Assoumani's main challenger. Some opposition leaders accused the courts of barring candidates from the March 24 poll who might pose a real challenge to Assoumani's reelection bid.

Advice

Individuals in Comoros are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate heightened security measures and transportation disruptions near any political gatherings, and avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.