The presidential election in the Comoros is fast approaching. Scheduled for January 14, this political deadline is already arousing the interest and enthusiasm of the Comorians. In preparation for this election, RFI initiated a series of interviews with the six candidates in the running. After hearing Daoud Halifa and Daoudou Abdallah Mohammed, it was the turn of Mouigni Baraka Saïd Soilihi, leader of the Comoros Democratic Rally for Equality, to take questions.
Mouigni Baraka Saïd Soilihi, former governor of the island of Ngazidja (Grande Comore) from 2010 to 2016, presents himself with a deep conviction of being able to bring real change to the Comorians. His positive record as governor and his third place in the 2016 presidential election give him this legitimacy. Today, in 2023, he is running again with the same objective: to take the top of the state and continue the work started on the island of Ngazidja.
The two main priorities of candidate Mouigni Baraka’s program are clearly defined. The first concerns the revision of the Constitution. According to him, the current Constitution is tailor-made for outgoing President Azali Assoumani. At the heart of this priority is the dissolution of the National Assembly and the formation of an inclusive government which will organize a round table to draft a new Constitution, based on the consensus of all Comorians. Mouigni Baraka hopes that this new Constitution will highlight the principles of rotation of power and autonomy of the islands.
Then, Mouigni Baraka emphasizes the economic aspect. He wants to reduce the state’s lifestyle which is currently very expensive. He proposes to review the salaries of the head of state, limit special funds and reduce expenses linked to presidential trips. He believes that a country like Comoros cannot afford to spend so much money on the presidency, when these funds could be used for essential sectors like health and education. As a former customs officer, he also attaches particular importance to supporting economic operators in order to stimulate the country’s economy.
The reform of the turning point, which is a sensitive subject in the Comoros, is also mentioned by Mouigni Baraka. He proposes to organize a round table where all Comorians will be invited to participate and debate the length of the presidential mandate. He says he is ready to accept a reduction in the presidential mandate if there is consensus during these discussions.
Finally, a recent controversy concerning insulting remarks towards the Anjouanese was raised during the interview. Mouigni Baraka defends himself by explaining that he never made such comments and that he is the victim of an attempt to manipulate his image. He insists on the fact that he wants to bring together all Comorians and build a democratic nation, bringing hope for the youth of tomorrow.
In conclusion, Mouigni Baraka Saïd Soilihi, presidential candidate in the Comoros, presents a program focused on revising the Constitution and reducing the state’s lifestyle. It also highlights the need for reform of the turning point and the participation of all Comorians in this democratic process. His desire to come together and build a better future for the country marks his candidacy.