EFF
By Thabo Mosia
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have expressed strong solidarity with Mozambique’s protesters, denouncing the government’s use of excessive force and warning of the broader implications for regional stability. This comes in the wake of a contested presidential election, violent protests, and reports of up to 6,000 prisoners escaping from maximum-security prisons in Maputo.
Heightened Security Concerns for South Africa
EFF Students Command (EFFSC) President Sihle Lonzi has called on South Africa’s government and military intelligence services to be on high alert. Speaking in response to reports of the mass prison break, Lonzi emphasised that instability in Mozambique could have serious ramifications for South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“A crisis in Mozambique will inevitably become a problem for South Africa and the region,” Lonzi stated, urging immediate action to bolster border security and regional intelligence efforts.
His sentiments were echoed by Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane, who warned, “Mozambique is burning. We need a stronger response from South Africa. We can’t allow the collapse of Mozambique like we enabled the collapse of Zimbabwe.” Maimane further called for South Africa to advocate for fresh elections in Mozambique and actively condemn oppressive regimes in the region.
Background: The Roots of Unrest
Mozambique has been engulfed in political turmoil since the disputed 9 October 2024 elections. The Constitutional Council declared Daniel Chapo of the ruling FRELIMO party the winner with 65% of the vote, defeating opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who received 24%. Allegations of widespread electoral fraud have fueled protests across the nation.
The announcement of the results triggered two days of intense violence, leaving at least 21 people dead and 25 injured. Protesters targeted gas stations, police stations, and banks in an expression of outrage over perceived electoral irregularities. According to Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda, the country recorded 236 acts of serious violence during this period.
Mass Prison Escapes Amid Chaos
The unrest has been further compounded by reports of mass escapes from two maximum-security prisons in Maputo’s Machava neighbourhood. While initial figures estimated 150 escapees, updated reports suggest that between 2,500 to 6,000 prisoners may have fled.
One escapee, still in handcuffs, was seen in video footage claiming to be among the protesters marching against the disputed election results. Authorities believe the mass escape was facilitated by reduced prison staff during the Christmas holiday season.
The prison break has raised alarms in South Africa and other neighbouring countries, with concerns about potential cross-border security threats.
EFF Denounces Repressive Tactics and Calls for Accountability
In their official statement, the EFF strongly condemned the Mozambican government’s handling of the crisis, highlighting incidents of excessive force, such as the use of live ammunition and tear gas deployed from helicopters.
“Launching tear gas from helicopters, restricting internet access, and using live ammunition against unarmed citizens is a gross violation of human rights,” the statement read. The EFF warned that these actions could push Mozambique closer to civil war, with devastating consequences for the region.
The party called on the South African government to convene the Mozambican ambassador and record its strongest condemnation of the violence. While the South African government has urged calm and restraint, the EFF argued that “more decisive action is required” to address the crisis effectively.
Regional Implications: A Cross-Border Crisis
The unrest in Mozambique has already disrupted regional dynamics. South Africa temporarily closed the Lebombo border post, a critical trade crossing, after reports of vehicles being set on fire during protests. While the border has since been partially reopened for cargo movement, the volatile situation continues to impact trade and travel.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also noted the economic repercussions, with plans to revise Mozambique’s 2024 growth forecast from 4.3% to a lower figure due to the unrest and recent natural disasters such as Cyclone Chido.
South African leaders, including Lonzi and Maimane, have stressed that instability in Mozambique could exacerbate existing challenges, including mass migration and economic disruptions, further straining South Africa’s resources.
EFF’s Message to Protesters and Leadership
The EFF urged Mozambican protesters to remain disciplined and avoid vandalising critical infrastructure, emphasising the need to preserve resources essential for rebuilding the nation.
To the Mozambican leadership, the EFF reiterated its demand for accountability and sustainable solutions rooted in democratic processes. “Imposing external solutions risks alienating the population and exacerbating the crisis,” the party stated.
Calls for Regional Cooperation and Stability
The crisis in Mozambique underscores the interconnectedness of Southern African nations and the necessity of proactive regional cooperation. Leaders like Maimane have called for South Africa and SADC to take a firm stance on the issue, with some advocating for fresh elections as a path to restoring stability.
EFFSC President Lonzi concluded, “This is not just a Mozambican issue. It is a regional issue, and the time to act is now.”
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