Mozambican police clashed with protesters, led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, injuring at least 14 individuals amidst claims of electoral fraud. Eyewitness accounts described the police response as an ambush, while the violence has reportedly resulted in over 320 deaths since October 2023 elections. The ruling Frelimo party is seeking to stabilize the situation through a political agreement with Podemos.
Recent violence in Mozambique saw police employing live ammunition and tear gas to break up a protest led by opposition figure Venancio Mondlane in Maputo. The confrontation resulted in at least 14 injuries, including those of two children, as reported by civil society organization Plataforma Decide. Mondlane, who claimed electoral fraud after finishing second in the October 2023 presidential elections, was conducting a march to promote his new political party when the incident occurred.
During the protest, live footage captured the chaotic scenes, revealing panicked fleeing crowds amidst gunfire. Eyewitness accounts characterized the police response as an ambush, and reports surfaced of a child succumbing to gunshot wounds later at the hospital. These violent actions by authorities come on the heels of extended unrest following the elections, during which international observers indicated multiple irregularities. Since October, over 320 individuals have lost their lives due to election-related violence.
In the aftermath, Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo party declared a political agreement with Podemos, the party that had previously endorsed Mondlane, in an effort to restore stability to the nation.
The incident in Maputo underscores the severe tensions and unrest following Mozambique’s recent presidential election. The use of violence by police against opposition protests has highlighted the ongoing struggle for political representation and civil rights. The ruling party’s efforts to form alliances may indicate a desire to address the escalating crisis, yet it remains to be seen if these actions will effectively restore peace to the region.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
