Violent Unrest Erupts in Mozambique Following Election Ruling
Police in Mozambique after the protestt Photo: Africanews.fr
December 25, 2024 Hour: 1:29 pm
At least 21 people have been killed in violent unrest across Mozambique following the Constitutional Council’s decision to uphold the victory of the long-ruling Frelimo party in the October presidential election.
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Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda announced late Tuesday that the court ruling, made on Monday, confirmed Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, as the winner with 65.17% of the vote, dismissing allegations of widespread fraud.
The ruling has sparked a wave of protests led by opposition supporters who claim the election was rigged. Demonstrations have erupted nationwide, with protesters blocking roads, burning tires, and clashing with security forces. In several provinces, public buildings and vehicles have been vandalized as anger over the election results escalates.
The violence has resulted in at least 78 arrests, with the government warning of more detentions as protests continue.
Minister Ronda stated that “the armed and defense forces will increase their presence in critical and key points,” emphasizing that security measures are being reinforced to restore order.
The opposition, led by politician Venâncio Mondlane, has rejected the court’s decision and accused Frelimo of electoral manipulation. Mondlane’s party alleges that the election was marred by voter intimidation, ballot stuffing, and irregularities in vote counting.
Allegations of vote rigging against Frelimo are not new; the ruling party has governed Mozambique since its independence in 1975 and has often faced criticism for consolidating power and stifling opposition voices.
The announcement from the Constitutional Council has reignited tensions in a nation already grappling with economic hardships, widespread poverty, and an ongoing Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado province.
Protesters in urban centers such as Maputo, Beira, and Nampula have been particularly vocal, prompting police to deploy tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Reports from local activists indicate that several deaths occurred during clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
Human rights groups have urged the government to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of peaceful protesters as Mozambique faces a critical moment amid rising tensions and escalating violence.
Autor: OSG
Fuente: EFE-Africanews
