Mozambique police shot and killed two protesters in Maputo during an opposition-led demonstration against alleged electoral fraud favoring President Chapo. This incident follows months of violence and unrest following controversial elections, where opposition leader Mondlane claims he was denied victory. Civil society groups and witnesses reported police brutality, highlighting a dire need for political accountability in Mozambique.
On Tuesday, Mozambique police opened fire on protesters in Maputo, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, as reported by witnesses and AFP journalists. This unrest accompanied a demonstration called by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, marking a significant protest following months of unrest stemming from allegations of rigged presidential elections favoring President Daniel Chapo.
Local civil society organizations have corroborated the reports of police violence, stating that during an attempt to disperse the gathering, police fired live ammunition, one shot fatally striking a protester in the head. Photographic evidence from AFP revealed two bodies covered by blankets, lying in pools of blood in the Matola area of the capital.
Mondlane, who claimed second place in the presidential race, alleged that he was robbed of victory amidst notable irregularities observed by international monitors. Following the elections, which he claims he won with 53 percent of the vote, Mondlane has incited protests—the last major demonstrations resulted in over 360 fatalities among protesters according to Plataforma Decide, a local advocacy group.
Prior to this incident, police had previously injured at least 14 individuals during an opposition march. In a statement on social media, Plataforma Decide confirmed the death of one protester and recounted a witness’ description of the event, stating that police pursued individuals into neighborhoods and shot them.
Mozambique’s Centre for Democracy and Development documented that the police’s Rapid Intervention Unit aimed their weapons at journalists reporting on the protests. CDD’s Andre Mulungo described the situation, asserting that the protesters were peaceful until police arrived to disperse them with live rounds. Many demonstrators expressed their frustration over the ongoing violence, highlighting their dire socioeconomic conditions and voicing their fears of governmental brutality.
The tragic events in Mozambique underscore the escalating tensions between the government and opposition factions following controversial elections. Protesters, reacting to systemic violence and denial of basic rights, were met with lethal force by the police, resulting in further loss of life. The calls for accountability and justice grow louder amid a backdrop of persistent civil unrest and demands for democratic reform, as highlighted by civil society organizations and opposition leaders.
Original Source: www.victoriaadvocate.com
