Russian flags raised all along the road in the Comoros

Russian flags were raised in several neighborhoods of Moroni, the capital of Comoros, on the morning of March 4, 2024.

Journalists from the online media FCBK FM stated, “Russian flags were raised from voidjou to the scientific high school. The National Gendarmerie is searching for the individuals who displayed these flags.”

This situation occurs in the context of strong protests by the population against the power of Azali Assoumani, accused of stealing the 2024 elections. The inauguration is scheduled for May, but the protests have taken a violent turn. The situation had calmed down throughout February.

This is not the first time that Russian flags have been displayed in Comoros. In 2023, a protester was arrested by the National Gendarmerie after displaying a Russian flag during an anti-government rally.

For opposition supporters, the appearance of these flags is seen as a sign of support for Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, from the population. They view it as a way to defy the West, accused of supporting the government.

On the other hand, for regime supporters, it is simply a provocation. They accuse the opposition of trying to use Russia to challenge the government.

The National Gendarmerie has launched an investigation to find the individuals who raised the Russian flags. After a lull, the situation is tense again in Moroni.

This incident highlights the deep division in Comorian society. Azali’s regime is increasingly contested, and the population is eager to see a return to democracy.

The future of Comoros is uncertain. Azali’s regime is weakened by popular protests, and the economic situation is challenging.
Said Hassan Oumouri