Mozambique Court Confirms Ruling Party’s Election Win Amid Protests

Mozambique’s highest court has confirmed the ruling party’s victory in the October presidential election despite widespread opposition protests that have resulted in over 100 deaths. Daniel Chapo of the Frelimo party was declared the winner with 65.17% of votes, leading to renewed protests from opposition supporters, who accuse the government of election fraud and have called for a shutdown.

The highest judicial authority in Mozambique, the Constitutional Council, has ratified the ruling party’s victory in the presidential elections held in October. Despite widespread protests led by the opposition, which have resulted in over 100 fatalities, the court determined that alleged election irregularities did not materially affect the outcome. The winning candidate from the ruling party, Frelimo, Daniel Chapo, was reported to have secured 65.17% of the votes, while opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane received 24.29%. These results mark a revision from initial reports that claimed Chapo had attained 70% of the votes.

Following the court’s announcement, supporters of Mondlane once again filled the streets of Maputo, engaging in civil unrest, including the burning of tires and road blockages. The opposition leader has consistently accused Frelimo of electoral fraud and has issued a dire warning of potential chaos should the court confirm Chapo as the victor. Mondlane has also proclaimed a planned “shutdown” to commence on Friday, signaling his intent to mobilize further resistance against the ruling establishment.

The political climate in Mozambique has been increasingly volatile, particularly following the October presidential elections that showcased intense competition between the ruling party, Frelimo, and the opposition. The elections were marred with allegations of ballot rigging and procedural irregularities, prompting a series of protests that ultimately escalated into violence, contributing to a significant loss of life. The Constitutional Council’s decision to uphold the election results represents a critical turning point in the ongoing struggle between governmental authority and opposition demands for electoral integrity.

In summary, the Constitutional Council’s confirmation of Frelimo’s electoral victory has heightened tensions in Mozambique, exacerbating already volatile civil unrest. While the court’s ruling is viewed as a reaffirmation of the government’s authority, it simultaneously invites further civil disobedience from opposition factions. As protests continue and threats of a shutdown loom, the prospect for political stability in Mozambique remains uncertain as tensions between the ruling party and opposition grow.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com