Mozambique police opened fire on protesters in Maputo, killing two during demonstrations against alleged election rigging. This unrest follows previous violent clashes leading to numerous fatalities, with opposition leader Venancio Mondlane claiming government manipulation and calling for reform. The ongoing tensions highlight significant socio-economic issues and demands for justice among citizens.
On Tuesday, Mozambique police shot at protesters in the capital, Maputo, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, as reported by witnesses and journalists from AFP. This incident occurred during a protest organized by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, in the wake of allegations that the recent presidential elections were rigged in favor of President Daniel Chapo.
The protest marked the first significant event led by Mondlane in weeks, following a series of violent demonstrations related to the October elections, which he claims were manipulated. Visual evidence provided by AFP depicted the tragic scene, showing two bodies covered with blankets in pools of blood in the Matola district.
Witness accounts indicated that the police intervened to disperse the crowd, opening fire and fatally wounding one individual with a shot to the head. Local civil society organizations corroborated reports of police gunfire during the protest. Mondlane, who secured second place in the presidential election, contends that he was deprived of victory amidst documented irregularities observed by international monitors.
Over 360 fatalities have been attributed to police actions in past protests, according to the civil society group Plataforma Decide. Earlier in the month, police also injured 14 individuals during an opposition march, employing live ammunition to suppress the gathering. Plataforma Decide validated one of the death claims through social media, where they shared photographic evidence.
An official from Mozambique’s Centre for Democracy and Development noted that the police’s Rapid Intervention Unit targeted their team as they reported on the protests. Human rights officer Andre Mulungo emphasized that individuals were exercising their right to peaceful demonstration when police resorted to violence, chasing protesters and firing live rounds.
An anonymous protester expressed frustrations regarding the dire socio-economic conditions, stating, “We have no jobs, nothing. They’re killing us, what are we going to do? They want blood?” It is noteworthy that Chapo’s Frelimo party has governed Mozambique since its independence from Portugal in 1975; he reportedly secured 65% of the votes while Mondlane claims he received 53% of the support, marking a significant challenge for the ruling party in decades.
The tragic events in Mozambique underline the escalating tensions between protesters and law enforcement, particularly following controversial presidential elections. Allegations of police brutality and the suppression of peaceful demonstrations continue to fuel public outrage. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane’s claims of election rigging and ongoing civil unrest are indicative of a profound crisis within the nation, necessitating urgent attention and resolution.
Original Source: www.france24.com
