Amnesty International has urged Mozambican authorities to reveal the investigation results concerning Inocêncio Manhique, a protester shot in the eye during a peaceful demonstration. Despite complaints filed for compensation, justice remains unserved. The organization condemned the police’s tactics and has called for accountability, highlighting a larger issue of impunity within Mozambique’s security forces.
Amnesty International has called upon the Mozambican authorities to release the findings from investigations concerning Inocêncio Manhique, a protester who suffered unlawful police violence during a peaceful demonstration two years ago. Manhique was reportedly shot in the eye with a rubber bullet, and despite filing a compensation complaint with the Attorney General’s Office, he has yet to receive justice. Furthermore, President Filipe Nyusi previously announced inquiries into the police actions, but the resolution remains elusive.
The organization noted the dangerous tactics employed by the police during the protest, labeling them as reckless and unlawful. Amnesty International condemned these actions as “an outrageous act of unfortunate policing against these defenseless protesters.” The rights group urged a thorough investigation into the officers involved in the arrest and mistreatment of demonstrators to ensure accountability for the violations of human rights.
Khanyo Farisè, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, emphasized that Manhique’s situation is indicative of the ongoing impunity that security forces enjoy in Mozambique. He highlighted the alarming trend of security personnel using violent measures to suppress peaceful protests, with over 300 fatalities reported since last October’s elections.
The scrutiny surrounding Mozambique’s security forces has heightened, especially regarding their aggressive response to public gatherings honoring the famed rapper Azagaia. Two years ago, Amnesty International reiterated concerns following a Human Rights Watch (HRW) call for a prompt and impartial investigation into the police’s use of force during Azagaia’s funeral procession, where teargas was deployed without justification.
The peaceful demonstration, which included over 400 participants, was held to commemorate the late Edson da Luz, popularly known as Azagaia, who was vocal in his criticism of the Mozambican government. His songs, such as “Povo no Poder” (Power to the People) and “Vampiros” (Vampires), criticized corrupt leadership. Activist Quitéria Guirrengane remarked that the march aimed to transmit the message that “independence is freedom.”
In summary, the call for justice for Inocêncio Manhique underscores a broader issue of impunity experienced by security forces in Mozambique. Amnesty International’s urgent request for fair investigation and accountability highlights the need for respect for human rights during public protests. The winter of unrest following recent elections and the historical context surrounding demonstrations reveal a significant challenge in governance and civil liberties in Mozambique.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
