Ahmed Abdallah

Ahmed Abdallah became the first president of the independent Comoros after the islands declared independence from France. He led the country through its early years of statehood.

Abdallah was overthrown in a coup led by Ali Soilih just one month after independence. He went into exile in France, but returned to power later.

Abdallah returned to power in a coup led by French mercenary Bob Denard, overthrowing the regime of Ali Soilih. He became president again, ruling with an iron fist and relying on Denard's mercenaries.

Abdallah was assassinated during a coup led by Bob Denard, who had been his security chief. The assassination occurred in his presidential office, and Denard briefly took control of the country.