Violence Erupts at Opposition Rally in Mozambique Amid Political Tensions

Mozambican police fired on protesters supporting opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, injuring at least 16 during a rally in Maputo. This incident occurred amid rising tensions after Mondlane’s exclusion from political negotiations post-election, where President Daniel Chapo’s ruling party was accused of fraud. The EU and other observers criticized the election’s legitimacy, while civil rights groups reported a significant death toll since the protests began.

On March 5, 2025, police in Mozambique discharged live ammunition at a demonstration supporting opposition leader Venancio Mondlane in the capital, Maputo. Eyewitness accounts and statements from Mondlane’s aides indicate that at least 16 individuals sustained injuries during the incident as police attempted to disperse the gathering. The protest occurred on the eve of President Daniel Chapo’s agreement with certain political parties to address ongoing violence in the country.

Mondlane, who was the runner-up in the October 9 presidential election, has been marginalized in ongoing political dialogues, even though he has voiced opposition against the ruling Frelimo party. The discontent in Mozambique follows the controversial election, where opposition factions claimed electoral malpractices by Chapo’s party. Despite the trials, the country’s highest court affirmed Frelimo’s victory, recording Chapo’s votes at 65%, in contrast to a previously reported 70% by electoral officials.

The Frelimo party’s continuity in power since Mozambique’s independence in 1975 has been increasingly challenged. Various international observers, including the European Union, criticized the electoral process, deeming it neither free nor fair. Following these events, rights organizations reported significant violence, indicating over 100 fatalities attributed to security forces since the protests began, with local estimates exceeding 300 deaths.

The recent police violence against protesters in Mozambique highlights the nation’s escalating political tensions. The events are rooted in the disputed election of October 2024, which many claim was marred by irregularities. As Vice President Mondlane’s exclusion from peace negotiations raises questions about democratic processes, human rights organizations warn of an alarming death toll linked to the response from security forces. These developments underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Mozambique as it navigates its political landscape.

Original Source: www.dw.com