Amnesty International has criticized Mozambique’s police for opening fire on opposition supporters during a political rally in Nampula city following disputed election results. The organization stresses the need for police to respect the right to peaceful assembly, especially amid ongoing protests over alleged electoral irregularities. Reports indicate that at least one person was injured and a prominent musician was arrested during the disturbances.
Amnesty International has condemned the actions of the Mozambican police in Nampula city, where law enforcement officials reportedly fired upon and detained supporters of opposition presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane during a rally after disputed national election results. The Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Khanyo Farise, emphasized that regardless of electoral outcomes, the police must uphold the right to peaceful assembly. Reports indicate that on October 16, police opened fire at a public rally for Mondlane, injuring at least one individual and arresting noted musician David Calisto Bandeira, who actively supports the opposition PODEMOS party. Bandeira faced charges of inciting violence due to his pro-PODEMOS songs. Supporters of Mondlane and PODEMOS have held protests since October 12, following partial election results favoring the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo. Additionally, on October 10, law enforcement shot and wounded two individuals at polling stations in various locations, including Baundua in the Sofala province and the George Dimitrov neighborhood in the capital, Maputo. In response to perceived electoral irregularities, Mondlane has called for a nationwide strike on October 21.
The reported incidents took place against the backdrop of Mozambique’s recent national elections, which prompted significant controversy regarding the electoral process. Following the elections, protests emerged as opposition candidates and their supporters voiced concerns over alleged irregularities in voting and results tallies. Nampula city, a political stronghold for the opposition, became a focal point for these tensions, leading to confrontations between protesters and police, which resulted in violence during what should have been peaceful gatherings.
In summary, the situation in Mozambique highlights a troubling disregard for human rights surrounding electoral processes. Amnesty International’s call for respect for peaceful assembly underscores the imperative for authorities to prioritize the safety of citizens, particularly during politically sensitive times. The use of force against peaceful demonstrators and the arbitrary detention of individuals pose significant threats to democratic principles and the rule of law.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
