Mozambique Protests Ignite Solidarity Movements in Angola Amid Socioeconomic Strife

Protests in Mozambique since October 2024, fueled by police violence and distrust in election results, have prompted demonstrations in Angola. As FRELIMO faces allegations of electoral fraud, civil society movements in both countries are advocating for political accountability and social justice amid growing discontent over corruption and economic instability.

Since late October 2024, Mozambique has witnessed extensive protests, originally initiated to demand justice for the murders of lawyer Elvino Dias and PODEMOS leader Paulo Guambe. As police violence against demonstrators escalated, the protests intensified, fueled by mistrust in the election results that reaffirmed FRELIMO’s prolonged dominance. People from diverse social strata took to the streets, echoing protest songs, notably “People in Power” by Azagaia, a critical commentary on government practices since its release in 2008.

Protests persisted for weeks following the inauguration of new leaders, including President Daniel Chapo. Notably, during a protest on January 13, a demonstrator challenged police brutality, asking, “Why are they going to kill us?” Statistics from the Mozambican organization Plataforma Decide indicated significant casualties, with over 300 fatalities and more than 600 injuries attributed to the unrest since October 21, 2024.

In Angola, demonstrations erupted in solidarity with Mozambique, especially in Luanda, where similar police violence occurred. FRELIMO has consistently dictated the political landscape since 1975, following its triumph over Portuguese colonial rule. Its principal opposition has traditionally come from RENAMO and MDM, though the emergence of PODEMOS in 2018 marked a shift, enabling the new party to gain substantial parliamentary support.

Venâncio Mondlane, the PODEMOS-backed presidential candidate, has emerged as a significant figure, advocating for national dialogue, housing investment, and the release of political detainees. Nonetheless, his admiration for far-right figures like Jair Bolsonaro and Donald Trump has raised eyebrows. Allegations of electoral misconduct have plagued the 2024 elections, as various organizations noted irregularities in the voting process, fostering claims of fraud from RENAMO and MDM.

In response to continuous protests alleging electoral fraud, the authorities resorted to force, employing tear gas and live ammunition against demonstrators. Organizations such as Amnesty International condemned this violent repression, urging a reconsideration of the state’s approach towards civil dissent. Human rights violations have also drawn attention from international entities demanding dialogue.

Angola grapples with its own socio-economic discontent, mirroring Mozambique’s strife, characterized by rampant corruption, unemployment, and inadequate democratic freedoms. Following the unrest in Mozambique, Angolans echoed grievances against their government in November 2024, claiming that police forces exist to serve the populace, not the ruling MPLA party. The protests were also a response to the arrest of several activists.

Civil society groups in Angola have drawn lessons from Mozambican activism, facilitating discussions on non-violent protests and government accountability. Initiatives like “Conversations from our yard” seek to foster dialogue on pertinent issues. Concurrently, new reports highlight ongoing human rights abuses, emphasizing the urgent need for monitoring public demonstrations and protests, with further analyses expected by early 2025.

In summary, the recent protests in Mozambique signify a critical struggle against systemic political repression and corruption, illuminating similar societal challenges in Angola. The rise of PODEMOS amid dissatisfaction with FRELIMO reflects growing discontent across both nations. While Mozambique’s turmoil triggers supportive movements in Angola, the use of state violence against peaceful demonstrators raises urgent calls for accountability and dialogue. Both countries remain at a pivotal moment, advocating for human rights and democratic freedoms which are crucial for their societal progress.

Original Source: globalvoices.org