Two associates of opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane were killed in Maputo amidst allegations of electoral fraud by the ruling Frelimo party following the October 9 elections. The incident has raised concerns about political violence against opposition figures, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice from civil society and international organizations.
In a tragic event on Saturday in Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, two associates of Venancio Mondlane, an opposition presidential candidate, were fatally shot. This incident occurred amidst rising tensions following the October 9 election, where allegations of electoral fraud by the ruling Frelimo party have intensified. Witnesses report that lawyer Elvino Dias and candidate Paulo Guambe were ambushed in their vehicle by gunmen, who unleashed a barrage of approximately 20 bullets. Guambe was a candidate representing the Podemos party, which aligns with Mondlane’s presidential campaign. The head of Podemos, Albino Forquilha, confirmed the death of his colleagues to AFP. Law enforcement authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter but have yet to officially identify the victims. They noted that a woman accompanying the individuals during the shooting was hospitalized following the attack. Police spokesperson Leonel Muchina suggested that the attack may have stemmed from interactions the victims had at a local bar prior to being followed and subsequently attacked. On the same evening, Mondlane participated in a vigil attended by approximately 100 supporters in Maputo, raising concerns about the political climate in Mozambique. As the nation awaits the election results, which are set to be announced on October 24, the ruling Frelimo party announced its victory shortly after the elections despite the allegations of fraud made by Mondlane and his allies, who are now calling for public demonstrations on Monday. The civil society organization, Mais Integridade, indicated that Elvino Dias had previously raised alarms regarding a potential assassination plan against him, further underscoring the dangers faced by opposition figures. In the wake of the tragic murders, Mais Integridade branded the attack as “repugnant” and an “act of intimidation” against democracy. Conversely, the Frelimo party denounced the killings, stating, “we reject vehemently this macabre act” and demanded thorough investigative measures. The Podemos party characterized these events as indicative of the pervasive absence of justice. The European Union condemned the killings and emphasized that such politically motivated violence has no place in a democratic society, while Portugal’s parliament joined in the denunciation, calling for measures to ensure social peace and democracy in Mozambique.
Mozambique has a history of political violence and electoral disputes, with the Frelimo party having been the ruling entity since the nation’s independence. Recent elections have been marred by allegations of fraud, leading to heightened tensions between the ruling party and opposition groups. The opposition has consistently voiced concerns over electoral integrity and the safety of its members, which have further escalated with the tragic events linked to the recent electoral cycle.
The killings of Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe cast a dark shadow over Mozambique’s political landscape, highlighting the ongoing threat faced by opposition figures amidst allegations of electoral misconduct. The reaction from various sectors, including political parties and international observers, underlines the urgent need for accountability and protection of democratic processes in the country.
Original Source: www.dw.com
