Accusations of Assassination Attempts Against Mondlane by Frelimo Party
Former Mozambican presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane accuses Frelimo Party of attempting to assassinate him and claims there have been five failed attempts on his life. The latest incident involved police firing on his motorcade. He cites ongoing political violence and intimidation tactics against himself and his associates.
Venâncio Mondlane, the former presidential candidate in Mozambique, has accused the ruling Frelimo Party of orchestrating multiple assassination attempts against him. In a recent interview with CIPCAST, the anti-corruption podcast by the Centre for Public Integrity, he stated that there have been five failed attempts on his life, the latest occurring on March 5 when police fired upon his motorcade in Xiquelene, Maputo.
The authorities claim their intent was simply to disperse a large gathering of Mondlane’s supporters. However, Mondlane firmly believes he was specifically targeted during this incident. “Frelimo is very interested in getting rid of me,” he asserted, emphasizing that the ruling party avoids public events due to low attendance.
He described the March 5 incident as nearly fatal, declaring, “They were real bullets, murderous bullets.” His cameraman was among those injured, being shot while only ten meters away. He highlighted the serious nature of the police’s actions, as they were armed with AK-47s, further indicating his belief in being targeted. Mondlane pointed out that over 400 of his supporters have reportedly been killed since October due to political intolerance supposedly enforced by Frelimo.
Moreover, Mondlane expressed concerns regarding his recent interrogation by the Attorney-General’s Office (PGR), interpreting it as a tactic of intimidation. He noted that no charges had been presented, allowing him to leave the office freely. Mondlane also mentioned the arrest of his treasurer, Gloria Nobre, on the same day, and subsequent summons received by his spokesperson, Denis Tivane, from the Central Office for the Fight against Organised Crime (GCCOT), indicating ongoing legal pressures against his associates.
In conclusion, Venâncio Mondlane’s revelations about the alleged assassination attempts by the Frelimo Party raise significant concerns regarding political violence in Mozambique. Despite the Frelimo government’s claims of maintaining order, Mondlane’s assertions highlight severe allegations of political repression and intimidation against opposition figures. His experiences underline the challenges faced by political dissenters in the current climate, particularly regarding their safety and the integrity of the judicial process.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
