Mozambican Minister of Justice Mateus Saize condemned the use of live ammunition by police against protesters, calling it abnormal. Over 300 deaths occurred during recent demonstrations linked to electoral fraud, which have shifted from focusing on elections to rising living costs. Authorities have reported 619 injuries and significant detentions amid the unrest, revealing serious concerns about police actions.
Mateus Saize, the Mozambican Minister of Justice, recently asserted that the employment of live ammunition by the police to suppress protesters is inappropriate. His comments follow an alarming escalation of violence, resulting in over 300 fatalities during demonstrations instigated by former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane. The protests commenced peacefully but evolved into riots as citizens expressed their dissatisfaction with the fraudulent election outcomes from October 9.
Originally focused on electoral grievances, the demonstrations have shifted towards broader concerns, particularly the rising cost of living affecting many citizens across the nation. The Decide Electoral Platform reported that since the start of the post-election protests, at least 303 individuals have been killed by police actions, with an additional 619 suffering gunshot injuries. Authorities detained 4,228 individuals amid the unrest.
During a recent ceremony celebrating the episcopal anniversary of Bishop Emeritus Mgr Januário Nhangumbe, Minister Saize stated that in scenarios involving disorder, the government advocates for utilizing rubber bullets and tear gas instead of live ammunition. Nonetheless, the use of actual bullets appears to have become an accepted tactic, especially among the Rapid Intervention Unit, Mozambique’s equivalent of riot police.
In summary, Minister Mateus Saize has highlighted the abnormality of using live ammunition against protesters in Mozambique, stressing the importance of employing non-lethal methods such as rubber bullets. The tragic outcomes of recent demonstrations, which have led to widespread fatalities and injuries, underscore the critical need for reform in law enforcement practices during civil unrest. As public focus transitions from electoral fraud to pressing economic issues, ongoing protests could further challenge governmental response strategies.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
