Mozambican police used live rounds against protesters supporting opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, injuring at least 16 individuals. This demonstration occurred just prior to President Daniel Chapo’s planned agreement on violence reduction. The protests stem from a disputed election, with significant accusations against the ruling Frelimo party. Observers call for electoral transparency as violence persists amid political unrest.
Recently, Mozambican police employed live ammunition against demonstrators supporting opposition leader Venancio Mondlane in Maputo. Eyewitness reports indicate that at least 16 individuals sustained injuries as police intervened to disperse the crowd, according to Mondlane’s aides who reported the incident via social media.
The protest aimed to express solidarity with Mondlane shortly before President Daniel Chapo was set to sign a political agreement intending to curb violence in the nation. Notably, Mondlane, who placed second in the presidential election on October 9, was notably absent from the negotiations leading to this proposed agreement.
Following the contested election in October, Mozambique has seen widespread unrest, with accusations from the opposition against President Chapo’s Frelimo party of electoral malpractice. The nation’s highest court confirmed the Frelimo’s victory, although it noted a discrepancy by stating that Chapo received 65% of the vote, contrasting with the over 70% reported by the electoral commission.
Frelimo has maintained governance in Mozambique since its independence from Portugal in 1975. Various Western observers, notably from the European Union, characterized the election as lacking in transparency and fairness, urging electoral bodies to enhance the counting and tabulation process. Moreover, reports from international rights organizations highlight that upwards of 100 individuals have died due to actions taken by security forces since the start of protests in October, while some local entities estimate the fatalities to exceed 300.
The events in Mozambique reflect ongoing tensions stemming from a disputed election, with protests highlighting public discontent regarding governance and electoral integrity. Police violence against peaceful demonstrations raises concerns over human rights and the political climate. The situation emphasizes the necessity for transparent political processes and a meaningful dialogue among all political stakeholders to resolve the current crises.
Original Source: www.dw.com
