Mozambique is experiencing severe violence after the country’s highest court confirmed Daniel Chapo of the Frelimo party as the winner of the disputed October 9 presidential elections. At least 21 people have died, including two police officers, and significant damage has occurred as supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane protested the decision. The Interior Minister reported 236 acts of violence and called for calm as tensions persist in major cities.
Violence has erupted in Mozambique following a court ruling affirming Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo as the victor of the contentious presidential election held on October 9. The aftermath of this decision has led to at least 21 fatalities, including two police officers, with significant unrest reported across the nation. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda disclosed this information during a press briefing, noting a surge in violent incidents incited by supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane, who garnered only 24% of the votes compared to Chapo’s 65%. The minister cited that over 236 violent acts had been recorded in a mere 24 hours, impacting various regions of the country, particularly in urban hubs like Maputo and Beira where chaos ensued, with shops being looted and burned.
The ongoing unrest has resulted in extensive property damage, with 25 vehicles, including law enforcement units, torched, as well as attacks on police facilities and the release of 86 inmates from a penitentiary. Tension had been escalating prior to the Constitutional Council’s ruling, and violent protests erupted immediately after the announcement. Social media footage illustrated the turmoil, showcasing the public’s outrage and responses from security forces. Mondlane has since called for a citywide shutdown starting Friday, further intensifying fears of continued conflict in the capital and beyond.
Mozambique, a nation of approximately 34 million inhabitants, has been grappling with political tensions following the October 9 elections. The ruling party, Frelimo, which has maintained power for decades, faced significant opposition from other candidates like Venancio Mondlane, leading to widespread discontent among the populace, especially among younger voters. As the political climate deteriorated, after the electoral body’s results were announced, violence has escalated, resulting in an alarming death toll and societal unrest, disrupting the peace and stability of the country.
In summary, the violence following the recent court ruling in Mozambique underscores the deep political divisions in the country and raises concerns about public safety and governance. With escalating acts of violence and loss of life, the situation remains precarious as tensions continue to mount. The response by the security forces, coupled with the civil unrest led by supporters of the opposition, indicates a critical moment in Mozambique’s political landscape, demanding urgent attention to restore order and address the citizens’ grievances.
Original Source: www.whec.com
