Mozambique’s Constitutional Court Upholds Frelimo Party Election Win Amid Rising Tensions

Mozambique’s highest court confirmed the disputed election results, affirming Frelimo’s Chapo received 65 percent of the votes. Tensions rise as the opposition calls for action amid reports of electoral misconduct and violent protests threatening stability. Chapo will succeed President Nysui, marking a new chapter in Mozambique’s leadership, amid ongoing socio-political unrest and a recent cyclone disaster.

Mozambique’s Constitutional Council has upheld the results of the contentious October elections that solidified the ruling Frelimo party’s dominance in the country. The court’s decision confirmed that Daniel Chapo, Frelimo’s candidate, received 65 percent of the votes, a decrease from the nearly 71 percent initially reported by the National Electoral Commission (CNE). Venancio Mondlane, representing the Podemos party, secured second place with 24.19 percent of the vote, while Ossufo Momade from Renamo received 6.62 percent, and Lutero Simango from the MDM obtained 4 percent. The court dismissed all calls for recounts or new elections characterized by allegations of electoral misconduct.

Mozambique’s political landscape has been historically dominated by the Frelimo party since the nation gained independence from Portugal in 1975. Election integrity concerns have been persistent, with reports from international observers citing irregularities in the recent elections. Tensions in the capital, Maputo, have escalated following the court’s decision, with protests erupting and police enforcing strict measures, including barricading key areas. The aftermath of the elections has also coincided with natural disasters, compounding the challenges faced by the nation.

In summary, the Constitutional Council’s ruling to confirm Frelimo’s electoral victory amidst alleged irregularities has heightened political tensions and fears of unrest in Mozambique. With the opposition expressing dissatisfaction and a history of violent protests following elections, the political stability of Mozambique remains precarious. Moreover, the country is grappling with the tragic consequences of a recent cyclone that has intensified the humanitarian crisis.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr