Comoros: Violence after Azali Assoumani’s re-election; the authorities introduce a curfew; the UN calls for calm

Moroni, the capital of the Comoros archipelago, is in the grip of clashes following the announcement of the presidential election results, which declare the incumbent president Azali Assoumani as the winner. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights urges authorities to protect the right to protest and calls for a peaceful demonstration. On Wednesday, January 17, the Comorian government announced a nightly curfew throughout the archipelago.

In the Comoros, tension is at its peak following the contested re-election of President Azali Assoumani to a third term. According to multiple sources, clashes continue on Thursday. Violence erupted the day after the announcement of the results.

In a statement on the situation, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk calls for calm and respect for the rights and freedoms of protesters.

«While targeting public property is not acceptable, authorities must ensure that those who are peacefully protesting can continue to do so freely and safely – as is their right», said Mr. Türk.

The UN body also calls on authorities to protect «democratic principles» and urges protesters to avoid resorting to violence.

«As post-election tensions rise, it is absolutely necessary for the authorities to ensure a safe environment, where all Comorians, including opposition members, can freely express their opinions and exercise their right to peaceful protest», added the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Authorities have imposed a curfew throughout the archipelago. «A curfew has been imposed», announced the Defense delegate, Youssoufa Mohamed Ali, on national television in the evening.

According to the decree published subsequently, the measure, which takes effect immediately, places Moroni under curfew from 7 PM (4 PM GMT) to 6 AM (3 AM GMT), and the rest of the territory from 10 PM (7 PM GMT) to 6 AM.

Yaya SAÏD