Mozambican police clashed with protesters supporting opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, resulting in injuries and accusations of excessive force. Eyewitness accounts described the police firing live rounds at Mondlane’s convoy in Maputo. The protest coincided with President Daniel Chapo’s plans to sign an agreement to address the post-election crisis, which Mondlane criticized as lacking public support. The Portuguese government has condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for restraint and respect for rights.
In Mozambique, violence erupted as police forcefully dispersed a protest led by opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who recently lost the presidential election. Eyewitnesses reported that the police used live ammunition against Mondlane’s convoy in Maputo, resulting in injuries to at least a dozen individuals. The police have not provided any official comments regarding the incident. These protests occurred just prior to President Daniel Chapo’s planned signing of a political agreement aimed at resolving the election-related unrest.
During the chaotic protest, Mondlane’s convoy was attacked by a unit from the rapid intervention police, according to a statement from his office. They utilized both live ammunition and tear gas during the assault. Interior Minister Paulo Chachine claimed the police actions were intended to maintain order during the ceremony and denied any intent to harm Mondlane.
Local civil society group Plataforma Decide reported that sixteen people sustained injuries due to the police violence, although BBC has not been able to independently verify these figures. Mondlane’s team alleges that two children were fatalities arising from the shooting, while the whereabouts of Mondlane remain uncertain, raising concerns among his supporters.
Video footage circulating online captures the moment gunfire erupted during the march, leading to panic amongst the crowd. Witnesses, including protesters, described the police’s actions as a sudden ambush rather than an appropriate response to the demonstration. Silvestre Alexandre, a 27-year-old protester, recounted seeing injuries and confirmed the tragic death of a child from gunfire wounds.
The Portuguese government has condemned the attack on Mondlane’s convoy, urging restraint and respect for human rights in Mozambique. Although President Chapo has promised inclusive dialogue, critics argue his exclusion of Mondlane from the political negotiations undermines genuine efforts for resolution. In response to the political deal, Mondlane criticized it as lacking public support and vowed to continue protests if the needs of the people remain unaddressed. Since the start of protests in October, nearly 400 individuals have died in related violence, emphasizing the urgency for dialogue and reconciliation in Mozambique.
In summary, the violent confrontation involving Mozambique’s police and opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane’s supporters highlights escalating tensions following a disputed election. With multiple injuries reported and allegations of child fatalities, the incident raises significant concerns about the state of political dialogue and public safety in the country. Despite promises for political inclusivity, the exclusion of key opposition figures continues to hinder progress towards resolution, leading to a tumultuous environment as protests persist.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
