Mozambique police fired on a peaceful opposition parade on March 5, 2025, injuring at least 16 people, including children. The attack occurred amid rising tensions following disputed electoral results and ongoing protests. Human Rights Watch condemned the use of lethal force and called for urgent reforms and accountability from authorities. The incident raises questions about policing standards and human rights in Mozambique.
On March 5, 2025, Mozambique police fired at a peaceful opposition parade in Maputo, resulting in injuries to at least 16 individuals, including two children, according to Human Rights Watch. The event, led by former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, was part of a larger display of unity among opposition supporters prior to a significant political agreement signing ceremony.
The parade proceeded without incident for approximately three kilometers when, near the Hulene Expresso interchange, police suddenly opened fire on the gathering. Witnesses reported that the crowd was joyous and celebratory before quickly transforming into chaos as the police used both tear gas and live ammunition against attendees, prompting a panic-stricken flight from the scene.
Human Rights Watch emphasized the alarming nature of the police’s lethal force against peaceful participants, calling for an immediate investigation and accountability for the actions taken. The incident is reflective of heightened tensions in Mozambique, with widespread protests erupting since October 2024 against disputed electoral results and rising societal pressures.
The police justified their actions by claiming the parade was obstructing traffic and posed a threat to the political agreement signing. However, the timing of the events raises concerns, as the signing was scheduled for a later hour and far from the site of the incident.
A police spokesperson maintained he was not aware of the use of live ammunition, indicating that the injuries were a result of panic rather than direct action by law enforcement. Nonetheless, criticism of police conduct has been mounting, with the new Minister of Justice advocating for the use of less-lethal measures.
International guidelines restrict the use of force in policing assemblies, stating that firearms should never be a tool for dispersing gatherings. Calls for reform highlight the need for Mozambique’s authorities to take serious steps in modifying police engagement after such violations of human rights.
The police’s violent response to the peaceful opposition parade on March 5 raises serious concerns regarding human rights and the use of force in Mozambique. The incident underscores the urgent need for reform within law enforcement, as well as accountability for the harm inflicted upon civilians. As highlighted by both Human Rights Watch and local voices, prioritizing non-violent methods is essential to prevent future tragedies and uphold citizens’ rights.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
