Mozambican police clashed with opposition protesters led by Venancio Mondlane, injuring at least 14, including children. Mondlane claims election fraud stemming from the October elections. The violence reflects ongoing unrest, with over 320 fatalities reported in election-related incidents. The ruling Frelimo party seeks stability through a political agreement with Podemos, a former ally of Mondlane.
The Mozambique police resorted to live ammunition and tear gas to disperse a protest led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane in Maputo, resulting in at least 14 injuries, including two children, as reported by civil society organization Plataforma Decide. Mondlane, who secured second place in the October 2023 presidential election and alleges election fraud, was overseeing a march to launch his new political party when the police intervened violently.
Witnesses shared harrowing accounts of the incident, describing it as an ambush as gunfire erupted, provoking panic among the marchers. A disturbing live-streamed video showcased the chaos, with reports indicating that a child later succumbed to gunshot wounds at a hospital. This violence is part of a broader trend of unrest following the recent elections, where international monitors have noted multiple irregularities.
Since October, the country has seen over 320 casualties linked to election-related violence. In light of the escalating situation, Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo party has declared a political agreement with Podemos, a party that had previously supported Mondlane, aiming to restore stability to the nation.
The recent clash between Mozambican police and protesters underscores the escalating violence following the controversial October 2023 elections. With numerous injuries reported and allegations of election fraud, the situation remains critical. The ruling party’s alliance with former supporters of Mondlane reflects an urgent need for political stabilization amid growing unrest.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
