By Thabo Mosia
Mozambique’s recent general elections have sparked significant unrest and controversy as opposition party Podemos, led by candidate Venancio Mondlane, has called for a recount of the 9 October 2024 election results. The ruling party, Frelimo, claimed a decisive victory, with its candidate, Daniel Chapo, reportedly securing 71% of the vote and winning 195 out of 250 parliamentary seats. However, Podemos contests these results, asserting that their own tally indicates Mondlane as the true winner with 53.3% of the vote and a majority in parliament.
Podemos officially filed a lawsuit on 27 October, demanding that Mozambique’s Constitutional Court re-examine the votes, citing numerous irregularities. The opposition party has also submitted extensive documentation to the Electoral Commission, claiming it as evidence of widespread manipulation. Observers from the European Union corroborated concerns, noting “irregularities” during vote counting, including unexplained alterations of results at various polling stations.
The disputed results have led to mass protests across Mozambique, particularly in opposition strongholds such as Nampula. Tensions escalated as police responded to protests with force, reportedly using live ammunition to disperse demonstrators, leading to injuries. Amnesty International and other human rights groups have criticised the Mozambican authorities, calling for restraint and respect for citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has commented on the situation, welcoming Mozambique’s decision to verify the election results. His statement emphasised the importance of transparency and credibility in the electoral process for maintaining stability in the region.
The escalating protests reflect broader frustrations over Frelimo’s prolonged rule since Mozambique’s independence in 1975, with the opposition pushing for greater political accountability. As Mozambique’s Constitutional Court reviews the evidence, the outcome could have significant implications for the country’s democratic process and stability in the Southern African region.
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