Mozambique’s government has banned protests following a series of violent clashes after a contentious presidential election that resulted in Frelimo’s victory. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda condemned the protests as “acts of terrorism” and urged citizens to cooperate with authorities. The unrest has reportedly resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries, alongside restricted internet access aimed at suppressing dissent.
In Mozambique, the government has enacted a ban on protests following several weeks of heightened violence and civil unrest after the recent presidential election. The election, held last month, resulted in victory for the ruling party, Frelimo, which has been in power since the country’s independence in 1975. The ensuing demonstrations, sparked by allegations of a flawed electoral process, have led to violent encounters with law enforcement, claiming at least 18 lives according to Human Rights Watch. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda has characterized the protests as “acts of terrorism” and called on citizens to comply with the government to restore order. Protests ignited in the capital, Maputo, after Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo was announced as the winner with over 71% of the votes. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who finished second with 20%, has reportedly gone into hiding due to threats against his life following the attacks on his associates as they prepared to contest the election results. To manage the escalating situation, the government deployed soldiers to uphold order during protests that have continued since October 9, marking some of the largest demonstrations to date. The police’s response included the use of tear gas and rubber bullets against large crowds who obstructed roads and engaged in arson. Regarding the protests, Minister Ronda has stated that their severity necessitated the prohibition of such activities, claiming, “I no longer call these protests, I call them acts of subversion and terrorism because they terrorize people and children.” Ronda further accused protest organizers of manipulating youth and perpetuating instability, asserting that they would be countered with law enforcement measures. Human Rights groups have indicated that the overall death toll could exceed 30 as the government has tried to curb internet access nationwide, which they interpret as a strategy to suppress dissent and public criticism. The government refutes allegations that the elections were conducted unfairly, despite opposition claims of electoral fraud. In light of these events, it is notable that current President Filipe Nyusi will soon vacate the presidency, having completed the maximum two terms allowed under the constitution.
The events unfolding in Mozambique stem from a contested presidential election that further exacerbated tensions between the ruling government and opposition parties. Frelimo, the dominant political party, has faced significant allegations of rigging and corruption, leading to widespread dissent among the populace. Given the historical context of Frelimo’s continuous dominance since Mozambique’s independence and the recent surge in national unrest, the government’s decision to ban protests indicates an attempt to curtail dissent while preserving stability in a volatile political landscape. The increasing violence and governmental measures taken, such as restricting internet access, highlight the ongoing struggle for democratic processes in Mozambique.
The government’s ban on protests in Mozambique follows a deadly wave of post-election violence linked to contested electoral results. With accusations of electoral malpractice and the subsequent unrest that has led to casualties, officials have sought to reclaim order by labeling the demonstrations as acts of terrorism. This situation underscores the fragile state of democracy in Mozambique as opposition groups continue to challenge the legitimacy of the ruling party amidst a changing political era.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
