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January 31, 2025 – Comoros –
A journalist in Comoros is facing trial on charges of spreading false news after publishing a report suggesting President Azali Assoumani expressed a desire for his son to succeed him as head of state. The case has drawn attention to growing concerns over press freedom in the country.
The controversy began after Abdou Moustoifa, a 31-year-old local correspondent for Reuters, published an article on January 24, 2025, quoting President Azali’s recent speech. In his remarks, Azali used a Comorian word that can mean “son,” “daughter,” or “child.” Moustoifa’s report interpreted the statement as referring to Azali’s 39-year-old son, Nour El Fath Azali, who was recently elected to parliament in elections boycotted by much of the opposition and appointed secretary general of the government — effectively making him prime minister.
The government quickly denied the interpretation, stating that the president was speaking broadly about all Comorians as his “children,” not specifically about his son. In response, Reuters corrected the article on the same day, clarifying that the statement was open to interpretation and emphasizing the government’s denial.
Despite the correction, Moustoifa was arrested on January 30 and detained overnight. State prosecutor Abdou Ismail announced that Moustoifa would stand trial for “publication, dissemination, and disclosure of false news,” under Article 231 of Comoros’ penal code. The charge carries a possible sentence of up to three years in prison.
Reuters issued a statement defending its journalist, emphasizing that reporters must be able to work freely without fear of harassment or legal threats. “We are committed to covering world events in an independent, unbiased, and reliable way, in keeping with the Thomson Reuters Trust Principles,” a spokesman said.
President Azali, who initially seized power in a 1999 coup and was re-elected in a disputed 2024 vote, has faced increasing accusations of authoritarian rule. This latest prosecution adds to mounting concerns about the state of media freedom and political repression in Comoros.
References –
https://www.barrons.com/news/comores-charges-journalist-after-report-about-the-president-b1b708a4
