Comoros Holds Parliamentary Election Amid Allegations of Authoritarianism

Opposition parties boycott or contest the vote, citing concerns over transparency and President Azali Assoumani's growing power.

Comoros voters are electing 33 parliamentary seats in an election marked by opposition allegations of fraud and authoritarianism under President Azali Assoumani.
Some opposition parties, including the Juwa Party, have boycotted the election, while others are participating to challenge the ruling party's dominance.
President Assoumani, who came to power in a 1999 coup, has faced criticism for consolidating power and granting significant authority to his eldest son, Nour El-Fath Azali.
The ruling Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros (CRC) party is expected to dominate the parliament again, with some candidates running unopposed.
Polling stations faced logistical issues, and low voter turnout is anticipated, with results expected by January 17 and a second voting round scheduled for February 16.