Protests Erupt Among Renamo Dissidents Demanding Leader’s Resignation

Former guerrilla fighters from Mozambique’s Renamo movement are demanding the resignation of leader Ossufo Momade, citing his poor leadership and recent electoral failures. The protests involved the closure of the provincial delegation in Chimoio and the burning of leaflets with Momade’s image. Spokesperson Fernando Mafenhure expressed a desire for new leadership, criticizing Momade’s alleged ties to the ruling Frelimo Party and echoing nostalgia for former leader Afonso Dhlakama.

In a recent protest, former guerrilla fighters of Mozambique’s Renamo movement demanded the resignation of their leader, Ossufo Momade. The demonstration occurred in Chimoio, the capital of the Manica province, where disgruntled members used chains and padlocks to close the provincial delegation and burned leaflets depicting Momade. They hold him accountable for Renamo’s poor performance in the 9 October general elections, seeking his immediate departure from leadership.

Fernando Mafenhure, a spokesperson for the protesters, stated, “Ossufo Momade has already given all that he had for the party.” He emphasized that it is time for Momade to step down and allow others within Renamo to lead. The sentiment among the members, particularly the former guerrillas, indicates a accumulated frustration with Momade’s leadership.

Mafenhure criticized Momade’s leadership, noting, “He has shown that he is a bad leader.” Under his tenure since 2019, Renamo’s popularity has significantly declined, prompting bitterness among its members. Mafenhure expressed nostalgia for Afonso Dhlakama, the previous leader, who he believed valued the contributions of the fighters who had dedicated years to battle.

In his remarks, Mafenhure lamented the lack of tangible outcomes from their struggles, asserting, “We are not seeing the results from our sweat and the work we did over 16 years.” He also leveled accusations against Momade for allegedly collaborating with the ruling Frelimo Party during the last elections, which he claimed were fraudulent.

The protesters declared that they would continue their demonstrations, threatening to shut down all district delegations until Momade resigns. Mafenhure insisted that the party must identify a new leader after Momade’s departure, demonstrating the growing discontent towards the current leadership of Renamo amidst ongoing protests from former members across the country.

The recent protests by former Renamo fighters highlight the urgent demand for leadership change within the party, specifically targeting Ossufo Momade. Their dissatisfaction stems from perceived failures in leadership and alliances that undermine the party’s integrity. As tensions rise, the protesters vow to expand their actions until they achieve their goal of a new leader, reflecting a deeper discontent among Renamo members and raising questions about the future direction of the party.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com