In a startling incident on September 13, 2024, Azali Assoumani, the President of Comoros, survived a knife attack during a funeral in Salimani Itsandra, a town near the capital Moroni. The assailant, identified as Ahmed Abdou, a 24-year-old policeman, was apprehended but found dead in his cell the following day.
Energy Minister Aboubacar Saïd Anli addressed the media on September 14, stating, "The president is doing well. He has no health problems, he is out of danger. A few stitches were given." The attack occurred around 2 p.m. local time, sending shockwaves through the small archipelagic nation of approximately 850,000 people.
Comoros, an island country in the Indian Ocean, has faced political instability since gaining independence in 1975. Assoumani himself first came to power through a coup in 1999, highlighting the nation's tumultuous political history.
The circumstances surrounding Abdou's death have raised questions. Public Prosecutor Ali Mohamed Djounaid reported that investigators found the assailant's lifeless body in his cell on Saturday morning. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine both the motive for the attack and the cause of Abdou's death.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of political tension in Comoros. In May 2024, Assoumani was inaugurated for his fourth term following a contentious January election. Opposition groups alleged voter fraud, claims which officials have denied.
Comoros, known for its unique rotating presidency system among its three main islands, faces numerous challenges. The country's economy heavily relies on agriculture and fishing, with vanilla, cloves, and essential oils being primary exports. Notably, Comoros is one of the world's largest producers of ylang-ylang, an essential oil used in perfumes.
As investigations continue, the incident has brought international attention to this small nation, which is a member of both the African Union and the Arab League. The attack on Assoumani underscores the ongoing political fragility in Comoros, a country that has experienced multiple coups since independence.
"The President is safe and the situation is under control. We urge all citizens to remain calm and united during this time."
The coming days will be crucial as authorities work to uncover the facts surrounding this attack and its aftermath, while the nation grapples with its implications for Comoros' political stability and future.