The vote held in the Comoros involved three islands: Grande Comore, Anjouan, and Mohéli, where a notable majority expressed their desire for independence from French colonial rule. This referendum was a critical moment in the region's pursuit for self-governance, occurring during a broader wave of decolonization across Africa. The islands had been under French administration since the late 19th century, and the movement towards independence gained momentum post-World War II as global attitudes towards colonialism shifted.

While most citizens of the three islands voted for independence, Mayotte's residents chose to remain under French control, a decision that significantly impacted the geopolitical landscape of the archipelago. In the lead up to the vote, political parties advocating for independence emphasized nationalist sentiments and the right to self-determination. The distinct choice made by Mayotte reflects varying perspectives on governance and economic conditions among the islands, making the Comoros situation unique in terms of colonial legacies and local aspirations.

The results of this referendum not only set the stage for the eventual independence of the three islands but also highlighted the complexities of post-colonial identity within the Indian Ocean region. This moment was a pivotal point in advocating for the autonomy of the Comorian people, led by figures emerging from the islands to champion the cause of independence and political representation.