Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, faced chaos on Friday as peaceful protests escalated into violent riots following the re-election of the ruling party, Frelimo, after nearly five decades in power. The unrest was sparked by opposition supporters who disputed the electoral commission’s announcement that Daniel Chapo, Frelimo’s candidate, had secured 71% of the vote in the October 9 election ¹.
The protesters, rejecting the outcome, claimed the ballot was “stolen” by a corrupt electoral commission biased towards Frelimo. As the election results were declared, large crowds mobilized in multiple cities, leading to widespread unrest. Rioters blocked avenues in Maputo by setting tires ablaze and destroyed Frelimo’s election billboards ¹.
Confrontations intensified as protesters clashed with anti-riot police, who responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds. This turmoil underscores the deep-seated discontent among opposition supporters, skeptical of the electoral process ¹.
At the center of the controversy is Venancio Mondlane, the opposition leader who declared himself the winner, citing irregularities and garnering only 20% of the official vote. Mondlane vehemently rejected the results, asserting they didn’t reflect the people’s will, and characterized Mozambique’s political landscape as “rotten, doctored and fake” ² ¹.
Mondlane’s popularity, especially among urban youth, poses a significant challenge to Frelimo’s dominance. His departure from Renamo, Mozambique’s largest opposition party, further fragmented the opposition, potentially complicating the electoral landscape ³.
The European Union poll observer mission corroborated opposition concerns, highlighting “irregularities during counting” and favoritism towards Frelimo. These findings lend credence to Mondlane’s claims, fueling tensions in the southern African nation ¹.
