MOZAMBIQUE has been plunged into turmoil, with at least 21 fatalities reported after the Constitutional Council upheld the ruling Frelimo party’s controversial election win on Monday. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda confirmed the death toll late Tuesday, describing the situation as critical.
Protests erupted nationwide, driven by opposition groups and supporters who claim the October election was marred by fraud. Demonstrators clashed with police in several cities, leading to widespread arrests and heightened security measures.
‘The armed and defence forces will strengthen their presence in critical areas to ensure public safety,’ Ronda said in a statement to national broadcaster TVM. So far, 78 protesters have been detained, with authorities bracing for further unrest.
Frelimo’s controversial win sparks outrage
The Frelimo party, which has ruled Mozambique since its independence in 1975, has long been accused of election rigging by opponents and observers. While the party denies these allegations, opposition leaders have intensified their criticism following the court’s decision to confirm Frelimo’s victory.
The October elections saw Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, declared the winner with a revised tally of 65 percent of the vote. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who garnered 24%, has rejected the results and vowed to install himself as president, a move that has further inflamed tensions.
Protests highlight Mozambique’s political divide
The latest unrest underscores deep divisions within Mozambique, as frustrations mount over unemployment, corruption, and Frelimo’s decades-long dominance. Opposition groups argue that the electoral process has failed to reflect the will of the people.
With violence escalating and security forces on high alert, the situation remains volatile. Rights groups have raised concerns over alleged human rights abuses by security personnel, who are accused of using excessive force to suppress dissent.
As Mozambique grapples with its worst political crisis in years, the international community is closely monitoring developments, urging restraint from all sides to prevent further bloodshed.
