Mozambique: Post-election demonstration under tension in Maputo
General strike and protests repressed in Maputo
Two days after the assassination of two of the opponent Venancio Mondlane’s associates, a demonstration was violently dispersed in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, on Monday. The demonstrators, who were responding to a call for a general strike launched by Mondlane to denounce alleged fraud during the presidential election of October 9, were confronted by police using tear gas to disperse the gathering. According to witnesses, the city’s main arteries, usually very congested, were deserted that morning.
Tensions rise after political assassinations
The situation in Maputo has become even more tense following the assassinations of lawyer Elvino Dias, who was preparing an appeal to denounce electoral fraud, and Paulo Guambe, a leader of the Podemos party. On Saturday, their vehicle was blocked by armed assailants who opened fire, firing about twenty bullets at point-blank range. These events come at a time when the final results of the election have not yet been published, increasing suspicions and tensions.
International reactions and security measures
The European Union, the African Union, and the UN Secretary-General responded swiftly, strongly condemning the violence and calling for a thorough investigation. In a statement, the UN urged all stakeholders, including political leaders and their supporters, to exercise calm and restraint. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union, said he was “deeply concerned” by the escalation of post-election violence, including the recent killings.
Maputo under close surveillance awaiting results
Shops in the capital remained closed throughout the day, and helicopters flew overhead to provide increased surveillance. With the results of the presidential and legislative elections expected this week, the climate remains tense. Precedents recall that last year, after disputed municipal elections, several protesters were killed by police during opposition demonstrations.
Conclusion
Mozambique is in a critical period of rising post-election tensions, exacerbated by political assassinations and suspicions of electoral fraud. International reactions call for a peaceful resolution, but uncertainty persists as the country awaits the official announcement of election results, amid mistrust and violence.
