Venâncio Mondlane, former presidential candidate, criticized an upcoming political agreement in Mozambique as being made “without the people.” He vowed to initiate daily protests over the next five years if the government does not act in accordance with public demands. Ongoing unrest since October has resulted in significant casualties and property destruction, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of electoral issues and social grievances.
Former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has strongly criticized an impending political agreement between the Mozambican president and various political parties, deeming it an agreement “without the people.” During a march in the Magoanine neighborhood of Maputo, Mondlane stated, “It’s an agreement of people without people, an agreement in the name of the people, but the people won’t be there…” He indicated intentions to initiate daily protests over the next five years.
Today, the president, along with Mozambique’s most significant political parties, is set to formalize an agreement that pertains to state reforms aimed at resolving the ongoing post-election crisis. The signing ceremony will take place at the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre and involves parties such as the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), alongside other extra-parliamentary groups.
Despite previous assurances from the head of state to broaden the dialogue with various societal segments, prominent critics, including academics and analysts, highlight the exclusion of Mondlane, who is recognized as the second most voted candidate in the recent elections and leads significant opposition to the results from the October elections.
Mondlane, rejecting the electoral outcomes, announced plans for sustained demonstrations to compel the government to act in accordance with the populace’s desires. He declared, “We want to announce that this year, 2025 until 2030, there will be 1,825 days of demonstrations every day. If you don’t do what the people want, you won’t govern in Mozambique.”
Since October, Mozambique has faced considerable social upheaval, following the disputed election results favoring Daniel Chapo. Demonstrations, albeit reduced in scale, have spread across the nation, focusing not only on the electoral disputes but also the escalating cost of living and other pressing social issues. Reports indicate that the protests have led to at least 353 fatalities and 3,500 injuries, with the government confirming 80 deaths and significant destruction of property.
Venâncio Mondlane’s articulated opposition to the upcoming political agreement highlights the growing discontent among Mozambicans regarding their representation in political dialogues. His commitment to daily protests over the next five years underscores the urgency with which he believes the government must respond to public needs. The ongoing unrest in Mozambique reflects broader concerns about governance and societal well-being, warranting attention from both local and international communities.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
