Human Rights Watch reports that Mozambican security forces have killed at least 10 children amid post-election violence following October’s elections. Numerous protests have erupted against the ruling Frelimo party, resulting in widespread casualties and claims of human rights abuses. President Nyusi condemned the unrest, while opposition leader Mondlane expressed readiness for dialogue under certain conditions.
In a recent alarming report by Human Rights Watch (HRW), it was revealed that Mozambican security forces have killed at least 10 children and injured dozens during protests following the contentious October 9 elections. The unrest erupted after the ruling Frelimo party, in power since Mozambique’s independence, secured victory, prompting heated demonstrations throughout the nation. HRW noted that one tragic incident involved a 13-year-old girl who was shot in the neck amidst a crowd fleeing from police violence. In total, nine other children were reported to have lost their lives, with at least 36 sustaining injuries from gunfire during these protests. The organization condemned the Mozambican authorities’ failure to respond to these claims and documented instances of police detention of hundreds of children without notifying their families, thereby violating international human rights standards. President Filipe Nyusi, set to depart from his role in January, denounced the current climate of unrest, attributing 19 deaths, including five police officers, to the recent turmoil. However, civil society organizations report a significantly higher death count, estimating over 67 fatalities since the turmoil began. Meanwhile, opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who disputes the election outcome, has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the president, contingent on legal protections for himself. Mondlane is believed to have left the country due to concerns for his safety, with his current location unknown.
Mozambique has experienced heightened political tensions following its recent elections, which saw the ruling Frelimo party maintain its hold on power despite opposition claims of electoral fraud. This has led to widespread protests across the nation, met with severe police repression. The role of law enforcement in these protests, particularly concerning the use of lethal force against children, raises serious questions regarding human rights and the protection of civilians during civil unrest. The ongoing violence has exacerbated an already volatile political environment, with significant implications for children’s rights and public safety in Mozambique.
The tragic events reported illustrate a dire situation in Mozambique where political strife has resulted in the loss of young lives and widespread injuries among children. The lack of accountability from security forces and the ongoing political unrest pose significant challenges to human rights and public safety. As dialogues between opposition leaders and the government unfold, the focus must remain on ensuring the protection of vulnerable populations and addressing the root causes of the ongoing unrest.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
