Comoros President Azali Assoumani has dismissed speculation that he plans to transfer power to his son, Nour El Fath, after his presidency ends in 2029. Assoumani, who first came to power in a 1999 coup and has won four elections since 2002, addressed the rumors following comments made during a speech on the island of Moheli.
“I will place my son to replace me as head of the state and the party,” Assoumani said on Thursday. However, his office clarified in a Facebook statement on Friday that the remark was not literal.
“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 read. It explained that Assoumani’s reference to “a child” reflected a cultural norm in Comoros, where all citizens are referred to as “children” of the nation.
The statement also reiterated the president’s opposition to dynastic succession, emphasizing that the country’s constitution mandates a rotational presidency among Comoros’ three main islands every 10 years. With the next presidency reserved for a candidate from Anjouan, El Fath would be ineligible unless the constitution is amended.
Assoumani’s tenure has been marked by controversy. His 2022 election victory faced allegations of irregularities from opposition groups. Additionally, El Fath has been entrusted with broad authority over government affairs, raising concerns about his growing influence.
Earlier this month, Assoumani’s ruling party won a decisive victory in parliamentary elections, but opposition parties boycotted the polls or dismissed the results as fraudulent.
Comoros, a nation of about 800,000 people, has endured roughly 20 coups or attempted coups since gaining independence from France in 1975.