Mozambique police clashed with protesters in Maputo, resulting in two fatalities amid unrest following claims of electoral fraud. The protest was led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who alleged that the recent presidential elections were rigged. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between demonstrators and government forces.
On Tuesday, Mozambique police opened fire on a crowd protesting in the capital, Maputo, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, as reported by witnesses and AFP journalists. This protest was organized by Venancio Mondlane, the main opposition leader, reflecting widespread unrest following the claims of rigged presidential elections in favor of President Daniel Chapo.
The violence erupted during Mondlane’s first major protest initiative in recent weeks, amid ongoing unrest that has resulted in over 360 fatalities from police actions since the October elections. Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene where police used live ammunition to disperse the crowd, with confirmed reports of at least one victim being shot in the head.
Additionally, a social media post from local civil society group Plataforma Decide confirmed one of the casualties, highlighting police pursuit of the victims into residential neighborhoods. Reports indicate that police from the Rapid Intervention Unit confronted not merely the protesters but also media personnel documenting the events. Witnesses claimed that demonstrators were peaceful when the police imposed violent measures.
The recent protests are part of a larger narrative following the presidential elections, which saw Mondlane assert that he rightfully won a majority of votes, contrary to official tallies favoring Chapo. The political landscape is marked by the enduring control of Frelimo party since Mozambique’s independence in 1975, amidst increasing discontent among citizens regarding employment and governmental actions, as voiced by protests’ participants.
The deadly confrontation in Maputo underscores the volatile political climate in Mozambique, fueled by allegations of electoral fraud and subsequent state violence. The event marks a significant moment in ongoing civic unrest, highlighting the urgent need for political dialogue and accountability in a nation grappling with deep-seated grievances against its ruling party.
Original Source: www.france24.com
