Former Renamo guerrilla fighters have protested in Mozambique, demanding the resignation of party leader Ossufo Momade due to dissatisfaction with his leadership, citing the party’s poor election performance and lack of dynamic leadership since 2019. The fighters plan to close district delegations until he resigns, expressing a need for new leadership and revitalization within Renamo.
In Mozambique, former Renamo guerrilla fighters have initiated a series of protests across the northern and central regions of the country, calling for the resignation of Ossufo Momade from his leadership role within the party. During a demonstration on Monday in Chimoio, located in the Manica province, the protestors utilized chains and padlocks to block access to the Renamo provincial delegation, while also burning leaflets depicting the party leader.
The dissidents, represented by spokesperson Fernando Mafenhure, asserted that Momade is responsible for the party’s unfavorable performance in the general elections held on October 9 of the previous year. Mafenhure articulated the sentiment among the former fighters, stating, “Ossufo Momade has already given all that he had for the party. We think it’s time for him to go home and participate in party activities as a simple member.”
Mafenhure articulated concerns regarding Momade’s leadership capabilities, suggesting that under his tenure since 2019, Renamo’s popularity has significantly waned. He emphasized the members’ discontent, indicating, “He is not dynamic… this does not please us as guerrillas and as members of Renamo.”
Expressing regret over the loss of former leader Afonso Dhlakama, who succumbed to diabetes in 2018, Mafenhure remarked that Dhlakama championed true democracy and appreciated the sacrifices made by guerrilla fighters. He criticized Momade’s alleged collaboration with the ruling Frelimo Party during the recent elections and claimed impropriety in their electoral victory.
Mafenhure vocally expressed distrust, stating, “He negotiated the elections with Frelimo!” He lamented the absence of decisive action from Momade, contrasting it with Dhlakama’s proactive approach. To escalate their grievances, the demonstrators plan to extend their actions, threatening to close all district delegations until Momade resigns as president, as noted by Mafenhure, who assured, “When he leaves, we must sit down and find another figure within the party to become president.”
Momade’s health remains a concern, as reports suggest he is currently undergoing medical treatment outside Mozambique. This protest marks another chapter in the ongoing unrest among former Renamo members, demanding a change in leadership.
The protests led by former Renamo guerrilla fighters reveal significant discontent regarding Ossufo Momade’s leadership within the party, attributed largely to its declining popularity and performance in recent elections. Their demands for Momade’s resignation reflect a broader call for revitalization and effective leadership in Renamo, with hopes for new representation. As events unfold, the protesters remain resolute in their activism, aiming to institute meaningful change within the party.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
