Comoros: Heightened security likely nationwide through mid-January ahead of presidential elections

Authorities in Comoros will likely maintain an increased security posture nationwide, especially in Moroni, through mid-January amid the country's Jan. 14 presidential elections. Incumbent President Azali Assoumani will seek a third term in office against six candidates. Assoumani and his Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros (CRC) party have been in power since 1999, with a brief interruption between 2006 and 2016. All other major opposition parties, including the Enlarged Common Front, have denounced the upcoming election as a "farce," while activists called for anti-elections demonstrations in Moroni on Jan. 9. Specific protest information is not yet available; however, demonstrations are likely near government buildings and along major thoroughfares.

While incidents of violence have occurred during some elections in previous years, the opposition is mainly marginalized and fragmented, with its ability to operate and organize being severely constrained. Nevertheless, security forces will almost certainly deploy to monitor all further demonstrations or rallies during the election season. Localized traffic disruptions are likely near rally locations. Authorities could move quickly to disperse any gatherings they deem overly disruptive - particularly those organized by opposition parties. Tensions and associated protests could persist after the election if any accusations of irregularities emerge.