Mozambique Opposition Leader Plans to Make Himself President Amid Protests
Mozambique’s main opposition leader, Venâncio Mondlane, says he will declare himself president on January 15, rejecting the results of October’s presidential election.
Mondlane made the announcement on Facebook, saying he refuses to accept the decision by the country’s highest court, which upheld the victory of Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo.
The BBC reports that Mondlane plans to act even though Chapo is officially set to be sworn in on the same day.
The BBC explains that Mondlane’s announcement came as violent protests spread across the country, with his supporters demanding an end to the 49 years of rule by the Frelimo party.
In the capital, Maputo, streets were empty on Christmas Eve as businesses shut down and people stayed home to avoid the unrest.
The BBC highlights that Frelimo offices, police stations, banks, and factories have been looted and set on fire in the protests. The interior minister said at least 21 people have died since the unrest began on Monday.
Mondlane claims the election was rigged and has refused to accept the constitutional court’s ruling. He promised to take office on January 15 but did not explain how he would do so, as he is currently in exile in an unknown location. Despite urging his supporters to stay peaceful, violence has continued.
The BBC says October’s election was the first presidential race for both Mondlane and Chapo. The electoral commission originally declared Chapo the winner with 71% of the vote, but the court later revised this to 65%, while Mondlane’s share increased to 24%.
Rights groups told the BBC that over 100 people have been killed in election-related unrest, accusing security forces of being behind many deaths. Police have denied wrongdoing, saying they acted in self-defense. Mondlane fled Mozambique after accusing the police of threats, and two of his aides were killed in October.
Mondlane, a 50-year-old pastor, ran as an independent candidate after breaking away from the Renamo party. His strongest support comes from unemployed youth demanding change. The BBC notes that Chapo, at 47, is Frelimo’s youngest-ever presidential candidate. He denies rigging the election, saying, “We are an organized party that prepares for victories.”
This story from the BBC shows how deep divisions in Mozambique’s politics are fueling unrest, as young people push for change while the ruling Frelimo party fights to maintain control.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq5lyj6l6v6o