UN human rights experts have urged Mozambique to cease violence against post-election protestors, following accusations of electoral fraud and resulting violent protests that have led to multiple fatalities and arrests. Experts call for impartial investigations into unlawful killings and emphasize the need for media freedoms and the protection of peaceful assembly rights.
UN independent human rights experts have urgently called upon the Mozambican authorities to take immediate action to address the escalating violence and suppression of demonstrators following the contentious general elections of 9 October. The electoral process, which resulted in a victory for the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, has been marred by widespread allegations of fraud, prompting significant public unrest and protests that have continued until 7 November. The aftermath of the elections has seen a regrettable rise in violence, with security forces employing repressive tactics against peaceful protesters. Reports indicate that approximately 30 individuals, including one child, have lost their lives, and over 200 have sustained injuries. Additionally, the authorities have arrested at least 300 protesters, and military forces have been deployed to quash ongoing demonstrations. Protest leaders have announced further phases of protests to be held in various provincial capitals and at border crossings. The independent experts expressed grave concern regarding the violations of the right to life and the excessive use of force by law enforcement. They stated, “The violations of the right to life, including of a child, deliberate killings of unarmed protesters and the excessive use of force by the police deployed to disperse peaceful protests across Mozambique are very disturbing.” Such actions have raised urgent questions regarding the integrity of the recent elections and the need for an impartial investigation into the unlawful killings. In addition to the violence, reports of media suppression have surfaced, with instances of journalists facing intimidation, harassment, and temporary internet blackouts. Human rights defenders who have attempted to report on election irregularities or have participated in protests have reportedly faced threats. The experts urged that law enforcement must uphold their duty to protect the rights of individuals exercising peaceful assembly. The experts implored, “Authorities need to take steps to halt the violence and ensure an environment in which all Mozambicans, including women and girls, can participate fully and equally in the political processes and express themselves without fear.” The UN experts reinforced their commitment to monitoring the situation and maintaining dialogue with Mozambican authorities, cautioning that prolonged violence and enforced disappearances could jeopardize the integrity of the nation’s democratic framework. They stated that the urgent resolution of these issues is critical to uphold human rights and foster a secure environment for civil participation. Ultimately, these developments highlight the necessity for immediate governmental action to address rights violations in Mozambique, ensuring that the citizens can engage in democratic processes without fear of reprisal or violence. An accountable and transparent investigation into the events following the elections is paramount for the restoration of public trust in governance and democratic integrity.
The political climate in Mozambique has been under scrutiny following the presidential elections held on 9 October 2023, which resulted in the ruling Frelimo party securing its position amid significant allegations of electoral fraud. Historical context reveals that Frelimo has dominated Mozambique’s political landscape since its independence in 1975. The aftermath of these elections has unfolded into violent protests suggesting widespread dissatisfaction among the population with the electoral process, prompting human rights concerns and calls for accountability from global rights experts.
In summary, the ongoing situation in Mozambique necessitates an immediate and concerted effort by the authorities to halt the violence and respect the rights of individuals participating in peaceful demonstrations. The independent experts’ call for accountability and their concern for human rights must be prioritized to ensure the integrity of the nation’s democracy and the safety of its citizens. Only through transparent investigations and dialogue can the underlying issues threatening democratic governance be addressed effectively.
Original Source: news.un.org
