Tensions Rise After Mozambique Election Results

Mozambique’s ruling party, Frelimo, has been declared the victor in the nation’s recent presidential election, extending its nearly 50-year hold on power.

Daniel Chapo, a relatively unknown Frelimo candidate, won 70.67% of the vote, while independent candidate Venancio Mondlane received 20.32% on 9 October. Mondlane, backed by the opposition party PODEMOS, and international observers alleged that the election was marred by irregularities, including vote-rigging.

The electoral period has seen rising violence. On 18 October, Mondlane’s lawyer, Elvino Dias, and PODEMOS spokesperson Paulo Guambe were killed in a shooting, prompting calls for a full investigation.

The European Union has demanded a thorough inquiry, labelling the incident as a “cold-blooded murder.” Chapo condemned the killings in a post-election speech, stating that Frelimo “repudiates” the violence against opposition supporters.

Mondlane has since organised a stay-at-home protest, claiming that authorities restricted his movement, and further alleging police dispersed his supporters and media personnel with tear gas during a press briefing.

Mozambique’s Constitutional Council is expected to review appeals from opposition groups, which could lead to the results being contested. As it stands, there are unresolved tensions across the country as calls for accountability continue.

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