A wave of violence has engulfed Mozambique following the Constitutional Council's confirmation of Daniel Chapo's victory in the October 9 elections, resulting in at least 21 deaths, including two police officers.
The unrest erupted shortly after the court upheld Chapo's win on December 23, 2023, dismissing allegations of electoral fraud and sweeping dissatisfaction, particularly from supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane, who secured over 24% of the vote. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda announced the grim toll of violence, reporting 236 incidents of unrest nationwide, predominantly concentrated around urban centers like Maputo and Beira.
“From our preliminary survey, over the past 24 hours, 236 acts of violence have been recorded nationwide, resulting in 21 deaths, including two members of the Police of the Republic of Mozambique,” Ronda stated during a media briefing.
Frustration erupted immediately after the court's ruling, throwing the country back on edge, as protesters took to the streets calling for what they deemed "electoral truth." Mobs blocked roads, setting tires ablaze, vandalizing public buildings, and clashing violently with law enforcement. The protests have been fueled by long-standing grievances against the ruling Frelimo party, which has governed Mozambique since independence from Portugal in 1975.
Local officials reported vehicles being set on fire and extensive looting, with police responding with tear gas and live ammunition. Footage shared on social media depicted chaotic scenes of unrest. Ronda noted at least 78 arrests had been made, and stated, “The armed and defense forces will increase their presence at key points” to restore order.
Despite the violence, Chapo, the Frelimo candidate confirmed as president, struck a conciliatory tone on his victory speech, promising dialogue with opponents. He won 65.17% of the votes after the court reduced his initial 71% victory margin, which had sparked widespread allegations of ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.
The opposition, led by Mondlane of the Podemos party, remains undeterred. Mondlane has been vocal about his beliefs the election was rigged, urging supporters to continue their protests. “We must continue the fight, remain united and strong,” he declared, emphasizing the need for changes and threatened to assume the presidency himself on January 15— the same day Chapo is expected to be sworn in.
Illustratively showcasing the tensions, Mondlane remarked, “We want to create a People's Constitutional Court, which will confirm Venâncio Mondlane as president.” His declaration has been met with rising fears of confrontations between the two rival factions, particularly with the death toll from protests reaching more than 150 since the election results first emerged.
The violence not only speaks to the current political turmoil but also reflects the underlying socio-economic issues plaguing Mozambique, including poverty and unemployment. These frustrations have formed the backdrop against which this electoral drama plays out.
International reactions have come flooding in as well. Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba extended his congratulations to Chapo, emphasizing the historical ties between the two nations. “I wish to congratulate H.E. Daniel Chapo and FRELIMO,” Mbumba said, highlighting the aspiration for collaborative endeavors moving forward, yet the unrest could overshadow any positive bilateral developments.
The capital, Maputo, has been eerily quiet as violence brewed, with many shops closed and public transport paralyzed; emergency services are overstretched, dealing with numerous injuries. “Maputo Central Hospital is operating under very difficult conditions,” reported hospital director Mouzinho Saide. Amidst the smoke and disturbance, many citizens have opted to remain home for safety during what should be business days leading up to Christmas.
Above all, Mozambique finds itself at a crossroads, balancing democratic processes and pressures from entrenched political divisions. With looming uncertainty, the government's ability to navigate these troubling waters will be closely monitored. Could this possible civil strife between the supporters of Chapo and Mondlane lead to greater instability, or is there potential for meaningful dialogues and resolutions to emerge? Only time will tell.
