Comoros President Azali Assoumani “Out of Danger” After Knife Attack; Attacker Found Dead in Custody

Comoros President Azali Assoumani has been declared “out of danger” after being injured in a knife attack on Friday, officials confirmed. The attack, which occurred in Salimani Itsandra, just north of the capital Moroni, took place while the president was attending a funeral for a well-known religious leader.

The assailant, identified as Ahmed Abdou, a 24-year-old policeman, was arrested shortly after the attack. However, Abdou was found dead in his prison cell the following day. Ali Mohamed Djounaid, the public prosecutor, stated that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of Abdou’s death and the motive behind the attack.

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President Assoumani, 65, sustained injuries to his hand during the attack but was given stitches and is reported to be in good health. Energy Minister Aboubacar Saïd Anli reassured the public that the president’s condition is stable, emphasising that he has no health problems and is recovering well.

The motive for the attack remains unclear. Witnesses reported that the attacker, dressed in a robe, stabbed the president before being restrained by a mourner.

President Assoumani, who first came to power in a 1999 military coup, has faced criticism for growing authoritarianism, particularly following his re-election in January, which was marred by allegations of voter fraud and deadly protests. He also served as President of the African Union from 2023 to 2024.

As investigations continue, authorities are focused on understanding the full circumstances surrounding both the attack and the subsequent death of Abdou while in custody.