Amnesty International is alarmed by a series of shootings against opposition supporters in Mozambique, urging investigations into the reported human rights violations since the October elections, which have led to over 300 deaths and many injuries. The incidents suggest an increased government crackdown on dissent and a climate of impunity in the country.
Amnesty International has expressed grave concerns following a series of recent shootings targeting opposition supporters in Mozambique. Khanyo Farisè, Amnesty’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, highlighted incidents such as gunfire directed at an opposition official’s residence and the fatal shootings of two opposition members. He emphasized that these actions could signify a resurgence of repression similar to previous years and reflect ongoing impunity in Mozambique.
Farisè insists on the necessity of immediate investigations into all human rights violations reported since the October 2024 elections. These concerns come amid allegations of rigging and subsequent protests sparked by the assassinations of two opposition figures. Reports indicate over 300 individuals have been killed, predominantly by security forces, which has heightened fears regarding state actions against dissent.
Additionally, the Mozambican authorities are accused of extensive human rights abuses, including the wounding of over 700 individuals and the arbitrary detention of thousands. The chilling accounts of torture and maltreatment within custody highlight the severity of the current situation. Furthermore, journalists have been targeted, internet access restricted, and military forces deployed to suppress protests.
Continuing unrest has been evident since President Daniel Chapo’s inauguration in January 2024. On February 24, during a speech in Cabo Delgado province, Chapo controversially labeled protesters as “terrorists” and threatened to “shed blood” to quell dissent, raising alarms about the government’s approach to handling opposition in the country.
In summary, the recent shootings of opposition supporters in Mozambique raise significant concerns regarding human rights violations under the current government. Amnesty International has called for urgent investigations into these events and accountability from President Chapo. The alarming number of casualties and repression tactics against dissent suggest a troubling environment for civil liberties in the nation following the recent elections.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
