"I am committed to preserving national unity and making the beautiful colors of our flag shine at all times, as a symbol of the unity of our four islands."
H. Karihila, 2019
Dr. Karihila, born in 1958 in Mbéni Hamahamet (Ngazidja), is a prominent political and intellectual figure in our country. After excelling in Arabic literature at the University of Medina and completing postgraduate studies in France, he dedicated his life to serving his nation, holding positions of significant responsibility. A close collaborator and trusted confidant of President Azali Assoumani, he played a key role in Comoros’ foreign policy, notably as Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Permanent Representative to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
His political commitment is rooted in his admiration for his spiritual mentor, former President Mohamed Taki Abdoulkarim. Disillusioned with the policies of President Ahmed Abdallah, Mohamed Taki resigned from the government and chose exile in France, where he continued opposing the regime. This decision profoundly influenced the young Karihila, who had just completed his studies in Saudi Arabia. Following the advice of his grandfather, the renowned theologian Ahmed Mfoihaya, whom he met during a pilgrimage, Karihila joined Taki in Paris. Under Taki’s guidance, he was introduced to politics, embracing principles of justice and loyalty that would shape his entire career.
Returning to the Comoros, he engaged in public affairs and, after several diplomatic missions, found himself in opposition after 2006. From 2006 to 2016, he restructured the Convention for the Renewal of the Comoros (CRC) party, becoming its Secretary-General. Through his leadership, he mobilized members and strengthened the party’s cohesion. His groundwork culminated in the CRC’s victory in the 2016 presidential elections, which brought Azali Assoumani back to power.
After his party’s return to power, Karihila was appointed in 2016 as Secretary of State for Cooperation with the Arab World. A position that, it must be admitted, fell short of the expectations for a Secretary-General of the victorious party. Nevertheless, Karihila chose not to publicly express his disappointment, prioritizing party unity and avoiding any harm to the new regime’s credibility. However, in 2018, deep disagreements with President Azali’s policies led him to resign from the government and sever ties with the CRC. He subsequently joined the opposition within the Convergence of Movements for the Republic and the Rule of Law (COMRED), mirroring the path of his mentor Mohamed Taki, who also sacrificed his position to remain true to his principles.
Today, Dr. Karihila is running for legislative elections with the aim of defending the interests of his region, marginalized due to its opposition to government policies. He seeks to bring the voices of the forgotten and excluded to the Assembly while promoting a vision of integrity and justice. Voting for Karihila is voting for integrity, dignity, and a fair future for all.
In addition to his political career, Dr. Karihila is a prolific author, with five books in Arabic exploring historical and cultural themes related to the Comoros. His interests include the role of Islam, historical ties with Oman, and the sovereignty of Mayotte. A candidate in the 2019 early presidential elections, he has consistently advocated for a stable, democratic, and inclusive state, committed to sustainable development and equitable justice.
Dr. Karihila firmly believes that the rule of law and equality among regions are at the heart of his political commitment. No region or city should be marginalized for political opposition or disagreement with government actions.
This message of fairness and justice is what Karihila aims to bring to the National Assembly:
Karihila calls for a future where all Comorians, regardless of their place of residence, have an equal voice and fair access to services and opportunities.
“Together, let’s build a nation where integrity, equality, and justice reign for all.“
"I am committed to preserving national unity and making the beautiful colors of our flag shine at all times, as a symbol of the unity of our four islands."
H. Karihila, 2019