Mozambique Police Clash with Protesters Supporting Opposition Leader Venancio Mondlane

Mozambican police fired live rounds at opposition rally in Maputo, injuring at least 16. The protest supported Venancio Mondlane, who was excluded from peace agreement discussions. Following contentious 2024 elections, accusations of fraud against Frelimo, the ruling party, persist amidst rising violence and casualties.

On March 5, 2025, Mozambique’s police used live ammunition against demonstrators supporting opposition leader Venancio Mondlane in Maputo. Following the incident, Mondlane’s aides reported at least 16 injuries among the protesters. The timing of the protest coincided with President Daniel Chapo’s impending agreement with other political parties aimed at curbing violence in the country.

Mondlane, who finished second in the presidential elections held on October 9, 2024, was notably absent from the discussions leading to the peace agreement. The aftermath of last year’s elections has been tumultuous, with widespread protests sparked by allegations of electoral fraud against Chapo’s ruling Frelimo party.

Despite the Constitutional Council declaring Frelimo the victor with 65% of the vote, this figure was significantly lower than the electoral commission’s earlier claim of over 70%. Frelimo, which has dominated Mozambican politics since the country gained independence in 1975, has faced intense scrutiny regarding the fairness of the elections. Observers, including the European Union, indicated that the electoral process lacked transparency.

Humanitarian organizations have reported a staggering increase in violence, claiming that over 100 individuals have died from security forces’ actions since the protests began in October, with some local groups estimating the death toll has surpassed 300.

The recent police violence against opposition supporters in Mozambique underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the country’s political landscape, particularly following allegations of election fraud. With President Daniel Chapo on the verge of signing a peace agreement, the exclusion of opposition leader Venancio Mondlane raises concerns about the inclusivity of the country’s political processes. The adverse impact of state violence on civil liberties remains a critical issue as political unrest continues to affect Mozambique’s stability.

Original Source: www.dw.com