Mozambique’s government declared March 5, 2025, as a ‘Day of Dialogue,’ but it turned into a day of violent protests led by Venancio Mondlane. Police used excessive force against demonstrators, resulting in numerous injuries and Mondlane’s disappearance. Amidst accusations of election fraud against FRELIMO, Mondlane plans to establish a new political party, while criticisms of the ruling party grow as the populace seeks change in an increasingly tumultuous political environment.
On March 5, 2025, President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique designated it as a “Day of Dialogue” by signing an agreement with political parties to address the ongoing post-election crisis. Unfortunately, the day devolved into chaos as violent protests erupted, highlighting the unrest that has plagued the nation and the government’s response through police brutality.
The protest was organized by former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, who, feeling excluded from the dialogue, led supporters for a peaceful march in some of Maputo’s economically disadvantaged areas. His advocacy continues as he claims he was the legitimate winner of the October 2024 presidential elections, maintaining that ongoing exclusion from political discussions denies the voices of Mozambicans and announcing plans for sustained protests over the coming years.
During the demonstration, police employed tear gas and live ammunition against protesters, leading to injuries for at least 16 individuals, including children, as reported by the NGO “Plataforma Decide.” The situation escalated, and Mondlane has since disappeared, leaving concerns about his safety and well-being.
Dinis Tivane, a spokesperson for Mondlane, condemned the police’s actions, describing them as a barbaric assault on peaceful citizens. Wilker Dias of “Plataforma Decide” supported this view, asserting that there was no justification for the violent police response.
FRELIMO, the ruling party since Mozambique’s independence in 1975, is led by Daniel Chapo. He has adopted a reconciliatory discourse, though many critique him for not delivering tangible results. Mondlane’s opposition retains significant backing, especially from poorer demographics, despite the political challenges he faces.
Mondlane, previously a member of RENAMO, has attempted to create a new political coalition, the “Coligacao Alianca Democratica” (CAD), yet he was barred from participation in elections due to alleged procedural irregularities. Subsequently, he ran independently in the October 2024 elections, gaining support from PODEMOS, which claimed only 24% of the vote amid allegations of governmental corruption.
The current political climate in Mozambique showcases a deepening divide between the ruling party, FRELIMO, and the opposition led by Venancio Mondlane. As tensions escalate, the ongoing crackdown on protests, the quest for a new political coalition, and the potential emergence of Mondlane’s new party highlight significant challenges and opportunities in Mozambican politics. The next elections in 2029 will be pivotal in determining the future landscape of the country’s governance.
Original Source: www.dw.com
