Mozambique’s Constitutional Council confirmed Daniel Chapo’s election victory for Frelimo amid allegations of rigging, leading to protests and at least 130 deaths. The ruling extends Frelimo’s leadership into its 50th year, drawing criticism from opposition and Western observers.
The Constitutional Council of Mozambique, the nation’s highest judicial authority, has upheld the controversial results of the recent presidential election, thereby allowing the ruling Frelimo party to maintain power for a 50th consecutive year. The Council ruled that Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, received 65% of the votes, a decrease from initial counts suggesting nearly 71%. Since the October elections, opposition groups have alleged widespread rigging, resulting in substantial protests nationwide and violent clashes with police, leading to at least 130 fatalities, as reported by civil society group Plataforma Decide.
Frelimo, short for the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique, has been in power since the country gained independence in 1975. The recent election has been marked by severe allegations of electoral fraud, with opposition leaders asserting that the integrity of the democratic process has been compromised. The unrest following the election reflects broader concerns regarding political repression and the state of democracy in Mozambique.
The confirmation of Frelimo’s election victory by the Constitutional Council has sparked significant dissent among opposition groups, who perceive the election results as illegitimate. The subsequent calls for political action, including potential uprisings, underscore the deepening political crisis within Mozambique. As the situation evolves, the international community is closely monitoring the implications for stability and governance in the country.
Original Source: www.dw.com
