A woman was struck by a military vehicle during protests in Maputo, Mozambique, following alleged election fraud claims. The military acknowledged the incident, pledging to investigate. Protests continue as opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane’s supporters demand change and criticise the ruling Frelimo party, which has faced accusations of corruption and violence against demonstrators.
In Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, a military vehicle collided with a female protester amid ongoing protests triggered by allegations of election fraud. The incident occurred when an armored vehicle accelerated towards a group of demonstrators who had erected a barricade adorned with the image of opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane. Though the woman sustained head injuries, she is not in critical condition. The military subsequently acknowledged the incident, pledging to investigate thoroughly and ensure the injured party receives adequate medical care.
As civil unrest continues following the October elections, which saw a disputed victory for Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party, opposition activists have mobilized widespread protests. Mondlane claimed to have secured 20.3% of the vote and has urged citizens to join protests blocking traffic. Supporters have organized communal gatherings, with individuals preparing food on the streets and calling for systemic change and an end to corruption.
Conflicted by democratization struggles, Mozambique has faced increasing violence, which has resulted in deaths among both protesters and children at the hands of security forces. Prominent activists have been murdered, raising concerns about targeted attacks on dissenting voices. Ancha Bai, a protester, articulated the frustrations of many by stating a desire for freedom, indicating the populace’s readiness to resist oppressive governance. Human rights organizations have condemned the violence against civilians, urging accountability for the recent incidents involving military and police actions.
The political atmosphere in Mozambique has been charged since the recent elections held on October 9, 2023, wherein the ruling Frelimo party claimed a decisive victory amidst claims of electoral misconduct. This has catalyzed protests led by opposition supporters who demand recognition of their leader Venâncio Mondlane’s claims to victory and call for reform against longstanding governance by Frelimo. The current unrest is marked by increasing violence from security forces, leading to fatalities and injuries among protesters, including noted incidents of police aggression.
The brutalities recorded amid the protests in Mozambique highlight significant tensions between the populace and the government following disputed elections. As the military and police react violently to dissent, calls for change and accountability resonate within civil society, suggesting an urgent need for reform and justice. The conflict reflects broader struggles for democratic rights and acknowledgment of civic voice in Mozambique’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
