Maputo: At least 21 people, including two police officers, have been killed in Mozambique as violence escalates following the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s victory in the October 9 presidential elections. The unrest, which has persisted for weeks, intensified after the Constitutional Council reaffirmed Frelimo’s win on Monday, sparking clashes across the country.
Key Developments:
- Casualties and Violence:
- A total of 236 acts of serious violence have been reported in the past 24 hours, leaving 25 people wounded, including 13 police officers.
- Armed groups have attacked police stations, prisons, and public infrastructure using bladed weapons and firearms.
- Shops, banks, and public buildings have been ransacked, looted, and set ablaze in Maputo and other cities.
- Unrest in the Capital:
- Skirmishes between protesters and police left central Maputo covered in smoke, with roadblocks and burning tyres making major thoroughfares impassable.
- Public transport has come to a halt, with hospitals and essential services struggling to operate under strained conditions.
- Spread to Northern Provinces:
- Violence has extended to provinces with strong opposition support, including Cabo Delgado, Nampula, Zambezia, and Tete.
- Election Controversy:
- Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane claims the elections were rigged and has refused to accept the result.
- Mondlane has called for the creation of a “People’s Constitutional Court” to declare him president, intensifying fears of further unrest.
- Frelimo’s Position:
- Frelimo candidate Daniel Chapo, who is set to take office in January, won 65.17% of the vote.
- Despite the violence, Chapo has adopted a conciliatory tone, promising dialogue with all stakeholders, including his main rival.
Impact on Daily Life:
The unrest has disrupted Christmas preparations, with shops and services shuttered and basic supplies like petrol and bread becoming unavailable. Public transport remains paralyzed, leaving residents stranded in their homes.
International Concern:
Observers have expressed alarm over the escalating violence and alleged electoral irregularities. Calls for peace and transparency have grown louder as Mozambique faces its worst post-election violence in decades.
The situation remains tense, with fears that the death toll could rise as protests continue.
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