Moroni has rejected claims by France that Comoros is encouraging illegal migration to the French overseas territory of Mayotte, following the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, during a visit to Mayotte, accused Comoros of engaging in a “clandestine policy” to flood the island with Comorian migrants as part of an alleged occupation strategy. Retailleau also announced plans to intensify crackdowns on migrant boats arriving from the neighboring nation.
In response, an advisor to Comorian President Azali Assoumani dismissed the allegations as baseless and inappropriate, accusing France of using migration to deflect attention from its failure to adequately support Mayotte in the wake of the cyclone.
The two nations have a history of tense relations over migration. In 2023, France deployed security forces to Mayotte to deport undocumented Comorian migrants, but Comoros refused to accept the deportees, deepening the rift. Mayotte, situated just 70 kilometers from Comoros, remains a point of contention. While France views the island as its overseas department, Comoros continues to claim sovereignty, asserting that Mayotte is an integral part of the Comorian archipelago.
With Mayotte struggling to recover from Cyclone Chido, Comoros has called for dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing the need to address the humanitarian crisis rather than exacerbate tensions.
Historical Context
In 1974, a referendum was held in the Comorian archipelago to determine independence from France. While three islands chose independence, becoming the Union of the Comoros, Mayotte voted to remain under French administration. This decision has been a persistent point of contention, with Comoros maintaining claims over Mayotte and viewing French sovereignty as illegitimate.
Migration and Operation Wuambushu
Mayotte has experienced significant migration from the Comoros, leading to demographic shifts and straining local resources. In response, France initiated “Operation Wuambushu” in 2023, aiming to dismantle informal settlements and deport undocumented migrants. This operation faced criticism for its humanitarian implications and was met with resistance from Comorian authorities, who refused to accept deported individuals, exacerbating diplomatic tensions.