Anjouan Invasion

Guide Note

On March 25, 2008, the Anjouan Invasion, also called "Operation Democracy in Comoros" was launched. Led by Comoros and backed by a Tanzanian-led African Union force, the invasion sought to overthrow the government of Mohamed Bacar on the island of Anjouan, after that island held elections in defiance of the central government of Comoros.

Fast Facts

1. Troops from Sudan and Senegal were also involved
2. France and Libya provided logistical support
3. Approximately 450 troops were involved in the invasion
4. A Comoros helicopter dropped leaflets on the area to warn residents of the impending invasion
5. The Presidential palace was abandoned when troops arrived

1. Mohamed Bacar, a separatist leader, was elected President of Anjouan in 2002
2. An election was scheduled for May 11, 2007
3. Citing concerns over irregularities and intimidation, the African Union canceled the election
4. Mohamed Bacar printed his own ballots in defiance and won a landslide victory
5. Sanctions were placed on the island to force Bacar to step down
6. In February, 2008, Comoros rejected the continuation of sanctions in favor of a military buildup

The African Union hoped the invasion would be a quick and definitive victory that would restore their reputation after failures in Sudan and Somalia. Comoros reported that the early morning invasion encountered light resistance around the mansion of Mohamed Bacar, but otherwise took the major towns quickly. Bacar escaped to France, where he is considered a refugee and is under house arrest on the island of Réunion awaiting trial.