Amnesty International Calls for Justice in Case of Mozambique Protester

Amnesty International urged Mozambican authorities to disclose the investigation results regarding Inocêncio Manhique, a protester shot in the eye with a rubber bullet during a peaceful protest. Manhique has yet to receive justice despite formal complaints. The organization condemned police tactics and highlighted systemic impunity, urging prompt accountability for human rights violations. Khanyo Farisè noted the increased violence against peaceful assemblies, with over 300 fatalities reported since last year. Activists continue to advocate for freedom and justice in remembrance of Azagaia, the late rapper and critic of governance.

Amnesty International has called upon the authorities in Mozambique to reveal the findings of their investigation regarding Inocêncio Manhique, a protester who suffered unlawful force during a peaceful assembly. Manhique was shot in the eye with a rubber bullet by police two years ago, yet he has not received justice despite his formal complaint for compensation and an announcement by President Filipe Nyusi regarding investigations into police actions.

Previously, Amnesty International condemned the reckless policing tactics employed during the protest, labeling them as an egregious infringement on the rights of defenseless protesters. The organization urged for a thorough investigation into police officers involved in the detention and beating of demonstrators, emphasizing the necessity for accountability for human rights violations.

Khanyo Farisè, Deputy Regional Director of Amnesty International for East and Southern Africa, highlighted the broader issue of police impunity in Mozambique. He noted that security personnel have used violence to suppress peaceful protests, with over 300 reported fatalities during the ongoing crackdown since last October’s elections.

The scrutiny of Mozambique’s security forces has intensified due to their response to public gatherings commemorating the late popular rapper Azagaia. Amnesty International’s recent statement aligns with a preceding demand from Human Rights Watch for an impartial investigation into police tactics that used tear gas during Azagaia’s funeral procession in March.

The peaceful march to honor Azagaia, attended by more than 400 individuals, aimed to emphasize that “independence is freedom,” as articulated by activist Quitéria Guirrengane. Azagaia, known for criticizing the Mozambican government through songs like “Power to the People” and “Vampires,” passed away two years ago due to sudden illness, leaving behind a legacy of activism.

In summary, Amnesty International’s call to justice for Inocêncio Manhique underscores ongoing concerns regarding police misconduct and impunity in Mozambique. The failure to address these serious allegations of unlawful force during protests against governance highlights the pressing need for accountability and the protection of human rights. Activists continue to emphasize the importance of peaceful dissent and memory of figures like Azagaia, who stood against corruption.

Original Source: www.jurist.org