AT least 20 people were injured on Saturday as protests over Mozambique’s disputed October 9 presidential election escalated into violent clashes with police. Demonstrators in the capital, Maputo, set two government buildings ablaze and blocked roads with burning tyres, stones, and containers, according to police reports.
National police spokesperson Orlando Mudumane revealed that the protesters also deployed homemade bombs to target government structures. ‘We managed to disperse them before they could attack and vandalise police units,’ Mudumane stated, adding that tear gas was used to contain the situation.
Opposition calls for nationwide protests
Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition presidential candidate, had called for a week of nationwide protests. Mondlane, who finished second in the election with 20 percent of the vote, disputes the victory of Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo, who was declared the winner with 70 percent.
Protests began on October 24 when Mozambique’s electoral authority announced the results. The opposition claims the vote was rigged, prompting widespread demonstrations that have since spiralled into violence.
Deadly toll and rising tensions
The unrest has left at least 90 people dead and 340 injured since the violence erupted, marking one of Mozambique’s deadliest political crises in years. Saturday’s clashes saw demonstrators confront police in a tense standoff, with injuries on both sides.
The escalating violence reflects growing public anger against what many perceive as a flawed electoral process. Protesters accuse the ruling Frelimo party of using its dominance to manipulate the election in its favour, a claim the government denies.
Mounting pressure on government
The crisis puts President-elect Daniel Chapo and the Frelimo party under intense scrutiny. Critics argue the government has failed to address concerns of electoral irregularities, while opposition leaders are leveraging public discontent to rally support for their cause.
With tensions high and violence spreading across the country, the government faces mounting pressure to resolve the crisis and restore order. However, with calls for more protests and no signs of a compromise, Mozambique’s political stability hangs in the balance.
The unfolding unrest is a stark reminder of the fragility of Mozambique’s democratic processes and the volatile nature of contested elections in the region. All eyes are now on the government and opposition to navigate this crisis without further bloodshed.
Credit: Africabriefing
