Mondlane Accuses Attorney General’s Office of Bias in Mozambique

Venâncio Mondlane, the runner-up in Mozambique’s presidential elections, has accused the attorney general’s office of bias against him. He outlined his grievances regarding the lack of action on cases he filed and expressed concerns that lawsuits aimed at him serve to intimidate. His legal battles coincide with rising political tensions following the election results that favored the ruling party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo.

Venâncio Mondlane, who placed second in Mozambique’s recent presidential elections, has accused the attorney general’s office of bias. He asserted that the institution acted quickly against him while ignoring his complaints lodged against violence and intimidation during his campaign. Mondlane expressed, “My expectations are not that high” regarding a forthcoming court summons, noting he currently faces eight lawsuits and believes these are intended to intimidate him.

In addition to feeling targeted, Mondlane highlighted his own complaints to the attorney general, including an alleged assassination attempt and numerous cases of extreme violence affecting his political party—claims that have yet to yield results. He remarked, “No outcome so far,” emphasizing the lack of action on serious allegations of violence that have reportedly resulted in fatalities among his supporters.

Scheduled for a hearing with the Public Prosecution Service, Mondlane’s case pertains to its investigation of demonstrations he organized post-election. Despite initial scheduled hearings, Mondlane’s summons was postponed to Tuesday upon his request. He insisted there was “no reason to flee” Mozambique, contending he has remained available for dialogue on issues affecting his constituents.

The Public Prosecution Service is seeking €1.5 million in damages related to protests he led in Maputo, making this the second civil lawsuit filed against him. In January, an investigation was launched against him, relating to a document he released that purportedly subverted democratic principles. The prosecution deemed his actions a violation of the Constitution as they alleged he exceeded his legal authority by issuing a proposed “decree”.

Mondlane’s position and actions have marked the most significant challenge to Mozambique’s official election results since the establishment of multiparty elections in 1994. The results declared Daniel Chapo, assigned by the ruling Frelimo party, as the winner, who has since assumed presidency. Reports indicate that clashes between demonstrators and police since the elections have resulted in numerous fatalities, with 353 deaths recorded, underscoring the intense political climate in the nation.

Venâncio Mondlane’s allegations against the attorney general’s office highlight concerns regarding judicial impartiality in Mozambique following the recent presidential elections. His numerous legal battles and the absence of outcomes for his own complaints raise questions about the political motivations behind the lawsuits against him. As Mozambique faces significant unrest since the election, the implications of these events may continue to resonate throughout the political landscape.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com