Mozambique Faces Social Media Outage Amid Protests Over Contested Election Results

In Mozambique, access to social media has been cut off amid nationwide protests following controversial election results. Citizens are facing significant communication barriers as opposition leaders organize a weeklong strike to contest the electoral outcomes. Human Rights Watch indicates that the violence post-election has already resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, leading to heightened tensions and police warnings against unrest.

In Mozambique, widespread disruption to social media platforms has occurred following opposition leaders’ calls for a nationwide strike. This strike is a response to the contentious results of the October 9 general elections, which have provoked significant unrest. According to NetBlocks, an international internet monitoring organization, access to major social media services such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram was lost on the first day of the anticipated weeklong labor protest, which commenced on Thursday. NetBlocks confirmed, “We can confirm that social media restrictions have been imposed in Mozambique amid calls for a nationwide strike. People are unable to access social media.” Previously, a temporary internet blackout was enacted last week just after the electoral commission announced the election results, during which time protests erupted and were met with violent suppression. NetBlocks noted that the nation experienced a “near-total disruption to mobile internet connectivity,” compounding the situation faced by citizens seeking to communicate. Approximately 17 million registered voters participated in the elections aiming to select a new president, parliamentary representatives, and provincial governors. On October 24, the ruling Frelimo party declared Daniel Chapo, the 47-year-old candidate, the victor with 71% of the votes, while his opponent, Venancio Mondlane, garnered 20%. Mondlane has since initiated calls for demonstrations to contest the election results and protests began on Thursday as part of a nationwide strike. According to Human Rights Watch, the ensuing violence after the election has resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals and over 50 injuries reported during the unrest on October 24 and 25. In an effort to mitigate further disturbances, police authorities sent warnings Wednesday evening urging residents to refrain from participating in any acts deemed as “sabotage.”

The current turmoil in Mozambique is fueled by the aftermath of the country’s general elections held on October 9, where allegations of electoral misconduct and disputed results have led to widespread dissatisfaction among opposition supporters. The ruling party’s declaration of victory has intensified calls for protest, leading to significant civil unrest marked by violence and suppression of communication through social media. The government’s response, including internet blackouts and restrictions on public gatherings, highlights the contentious atmosphere surrounding the electoral process and the struggle for democratic discourse in Mozambique.

The situation in Mozambique remains tense as citizens face restricted access to social media amid ongoing protests against disputed election results. The government’s imposition of an internet blackout coinciding with increased civil unrest raises critical concerns regarding the freedom of expression and the safety of individuals participating in demonstrations. With calls for a weeklong strike initiated by opposition leaders, the trajectory of events in the coming days will be pivotal in shaping the political landscape of the country.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr