Mozambican police fired live rounds during a protest led by opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane in Maputo, resulting in injuries to at least sixteen people. The incident occurred as Mondlane’s convoy was targeted amidst ongoing political tensions following a disputed election. There has been no official comment from authorities despite calls for outcry and accountability regarding the violence. Mondlane has vowed to continue protests against the government’s exclusionary practices.
On Wednesday, November 1, 2023, a violent confrontation occurred in Maputo, Mozambique, as police responded to a protest led by opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who had previously secured the second position in a contentious presidential election. Reports indicate that at least a dozen individuals sustained injuries due to the police’s aggressive dispersal tactics, which involved live ammunition being fired into Mondlane’s convoy as well as towards anti-government protesters accompanying him.
Eyewitness accounts and statements from Mondlane’s staff reveal that the police unit known as UIR (rapid intervention police) intentionally rammed into Mondlane’s convoy, unleashing gunfire and utilizing tear gas. Despite the severity of the situation, there has been no official commentary from police or government officials regarding these events. Interior Minister Paulo Chachine insisted that the police acted to maintain order during the signing of a political agreement aimed at resolving ongoing tensions in the country.
According to local civil society organization Plataforma Decide, sixteen individuals were injured amidst the chaos. Additionally, Mondlane’s team reported that two children from a nearby school succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident. Acknowledgement of the violence has led to heightened concerns regarding Mondlane’s safety and location, with some individuals within his circle expressing alarm over his situation.
Graphic footage and images of the aftermath have circulated on social media, illustrating the violent nature of the encounter. Protester Silvestre Alexandre described the scene, stating, “I saw some people bleeding from their wounds,” highlighting the distress faced by protesters. Amidst increasing dissatisfaction with the political climate, the former colonial power, Portugal, condemned the police actions directed at Mondlane’s convoy, urging for restraint and respect for fundamental human rights.
Moreover, President Daniel Chapo has faced criticism for excluding Mondlane from political discussions aimed at mitigating post-election unrest. In response to the unfolding events, Mondlane declared intentions to continue protests, deeming the political agreement as lacking genuine representation of the citizenry. He emphasized, “If they do not do what the people want, they will not govern Mozambique.
Since the conclusion of the controversial election, escalating unrest has claimed nearly 400 lives, pursuant to data provided by civil society organizations. This alarming statistic reflects the urgent need for dialogue and reform in the political landscape of Mozambique.
The violent incident involving police and opposition protests in Mozambique has underscored the escalating tensions following the recent presidential election. As injuries and tragic fatalities have emerged from the clashes, advocates are calling for accountability and a reassessment of the political dialogue that has excluded significant voices like that of Venâncio Mondlane. The ongoing unrest highlights the necessity for genuine engagement with the populace to restore stability in Mozambique.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
