Sweeping Powers Granted to President's Son in Comoros

Comoros President Azali Assoumani has given extensive powers to his son, Nour El Fath, allowing him to influence all stages of government policy. This move has sparked allegations that Assoumani is grooming El Fath to succeed him. Comoros, a nation with a turbulent political history, may face further constitutional changes.

In a controversial move, Comoros President Azali Assoumani has granted substantial new powers to his son, Nour El Fath, allowing him to intervene at all stages of government policy execution. This development follows El Fath's recent appointment as the coordinator of government affairs.

At 65, President Assoumani's re-election in January involved allegations of voter fraud. Critics and political analysts argue that by giving his son such influential powers, Assoumani may be setting the stage for El Fath to succeed him when his term ends in 2029. Neither Assoumani nor El Fath have commented on these allegations.

Franco-Comorian lawyer Saïd Larifou stated, “There is no doubt that Colonel Azali Assoumani, by granting presidential and constitutional prerogatives to his son, is preparing the latter to succeed him.” According to a presidential decree, El Fath, 40, now has the authority to evaluate ministers and intervene in governmental decisions to ensure their thorough implementation.