Recent events in Mozambique have been marked by post-election protests that have turned violent and unrest. Tensions have reached alarming levels, prompting strong reactions from several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada. The latter have strongly condemned what they called “an escalation of violence against civilians”.
In their joint statement, the countries called on the Mozambican government to investigate reports of disproportionate use of force and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. Indeed, last Wednesday saw another round of bloody protests, with anti-government protesters clashing with security forces in different parts of the country.
In Nampula, in the north of the country, protesters erected barricades and set fire to tires, disrupting traffic. Police opened fire, killing two protesters. Further south, crowds blocked vehicles at the main border with South Africa. In the capital, unrest broke out after a military vehicle hit a protester.
In total, in addition to a dozen protesters, several police officers have been killed since the unrest began following disputed elections last October. The opposition has denounced the election results as fraudulent, after the Frelimo party, which has been in power for 49 years, was declared a winner.
Western observers have also alleged irregularities in the polls. The post-election crisis raises serious concerns about stability and democracy in Mozambique, a country once plagued by internal conflict. It is imperative that all stakeholders engage in constructive dialogue to resolve these tensions and work towards peace and justice for all Mozambican citizens.