Comoros Union's official describes France's actions in Mayotte as modern-day coup

Thabit Ahmed, a high-ranking official from the Comoros Union, has accused France of perpetuating colonial practices in the Comoros Islands, specifically targeting Mayotte Island. 

Addressing a conference titled "Illegal French Occupation of Mayotte Island of Comoros Union," organized by the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), Ahmed condemned France's continued presence in the region, Caliber.Az reports referring to local media.

Ahmed argued that France’s actions in Mayotte represent a blatant violation of international law and a continuation of colonial policies. “France has attempted a coup d'état on our territory,” Ahmed asserted. “The French representation in Mayotte poses a direct threat to our territorial integrity. Despite international resolutions condemning such actions, France persists in its colonial ambitions,” he said.

Ahmed also pointed to the strategic significance of Mayotte, which is rich in natural resources such as gas. He suggested that France's heightened interest in the island is driven by its economic potential and has led to increased political interference by Paris. “The presence of valuable resources on Mayotte has intensified France’s determination to maintain control over the island,” Ahmed noted.

The official’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions between the Comoros Union and France, with Ahmed emphasizing that France’s policies are in defiance of UN Security Council decisions.