Comoros: Tensions remain high ahead of July 30 referendum

Event

Tensions remain high throughout the country ahead of the constitutional referendum on presidential term limits being held on Monday, July 30. The move is widely regarded as an attempt by President Azali Assoumani to extend his term, which has angered his opponents, and provoked demonstrations and clashes between opposition protesters and security forces. Further protests and clashes are possible in the lead-up to and on referendum day, as well as in subsequent days. Additionally, Vice President Abdou Moustoidrane survived an assassination attempt near Matsamadu (Anjouan island) on July 22.

Context

The referendum will decide whether to amend the constitution from the current single five-year term to two five-year terms. It will also do away with the current system where the position rotates every five years between the archipelago's islands of Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Moheli. If the referendum passes, the next presidential election will be held in 2019 instead of 2021.

The current presidential term system was designed to promote stability and power-sharing in the coup-prone country. There have been more than 20 coups or coup attempts since the country declared independence from France in 1975.

Advice

Individuals in Comoros are advised to keep abreast of the sociopolitical climate, avoid all protests and political rallies, and limit movements on referendum day.