Mozambique Erupts in Violence as Court Confirms Election Results, 21 Dead

Violence erupted in Mozambique following the court ruling confirming Daniel Chapo’s election victory, resulting in at least 21 deaths including two police officers. The unrest was driven by supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane, leading to widespread looting and damage. Tensions continue to escalate with calls for nationwide protests, amidst ongoing violence from security forces against demonstrators.

Mozambique has witnessed a severe outbreak of violence following the confirmation by the nation’s highest court of Daniel Chapo as the victor in the contested presidential elections held on October 9. This unrest has resulted in at least 21 fatalities, including two police officers, as reported by authorities on Tuesday. The civil disorder was primarily instigated by supporters of the second-place candidate, Venancio Mondlane, who garnered 24% of the votes against Chapo’s 65%. Mozambique’s Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda stated that the recent surge of violence has been characterized by various acts of looting and civil unrest, with 236 incidents recorded within a 24-hour period. Furthermore, he reported injuries to 25 individuals, including both civilians and police personnel. The rampant violence included the arson of 25 vehicles, attacks on 11 police facilities, along with a penitentiary where 86 inmates were liberated.Mondlane has called for a nationwide “shutdown” commencing Friday, a directive that has intensified the existing tensions in the capital, Maputo, and the city of Beira. The unrest has been exacerbated by pre-existing societal tensions related to the electoral process. Footage circulating on social media has shown scenes of protesters engaging in looting and setting shops ablaze, while some local officials in Beira have reportedly vacated their positions amid fears for their safety. With a population of 34 million, Mozambique has been under considerable strain since the elections, resulting in more than 150 casualties related to post-election turmoil since the announcement of preliminary results. The escalation of protests has been met with force by security personnel, further deepening the crisis within the nation.

In the aftermath of Mozambique’s October 9 elections, which were marred by controversies and allegations, the confirmation by the Constitutional Council of the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate as the winner triggered significant civil unrest. The political landscape in Mozambique has long been characterized by polarization, primarily between the ruling party and opposition figures. As both factions have substantial youth support, the discontent following the election results has incited widespread protests, creating a volatile environment in which violence has now erupted, leading to extensive casualties and injuries, further complicating the country’s socio-political dynamics.

The ongoing violence in Mozambique is a grave consequence of the recent electoral dispute. With 21 confirmed deaths and a significant number of injuries, the security situation remains precarious as protests escalate. The call for a ‘shutdown’ by Venancio Mondlane’s supporters is poised to further exacerbate tensions in an already unstable political climate. The tragic loss of lives and property underscores the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to restore peace in the region.

Original Source: www.whec.com