The military coup

In 1997 Anjouan seceded from the Comoros. Two opposing factions took control of the island and although both factions agreed to secede from Comoros, they disagreed as to whether they should join France or declare independence. Fierce fighting broke out in the island.

On the 23^rd of April 1999, the Anjouan representatives refused to sign an agreement by the Organization of African Unity (OAU) which proposed broad autonomy for the three islands under a central administration. What followed was an escalation of violence which spread to the main island and the capital Moroni.

In order to stop the spread of violence, Col. Assoumani Azzali staged a bloodless coup and ousted President Mohamed Tadjidine Ben Said Massounde and the government of his Prime Minister Abbas Djoussouf on the 30::SUP of April 1999. The new leader promised that he will stay in power for one year only, and that elections will be held within this specified period.