Amnesty International is urging the Mozambican authorities to disclose findings regarding Inocêncio Manhique, who was shot in the eye by police during a peaceful protest. The group has highlighted issues of police misconduct and impunity, calling for accountability for human rights violations. Furthermore, concerns have arisen due to the violent suppression of protests in Mozambique, notably in remembrance of the late rapper Azagaia.
Amnesty International has called upon the Mozambican authorities to reveal the findings of their investigation into the case of Inocêncio Manhique. Manhique sustained an injury to his eye from a rubber bullet fired by the police during a peaceful protest. Despite his request for compensation to the Attorney General’s Office and the announcement of investigations by President Filipe Nyusi, justice remains elusive for him.
The organization previously documented the “reckless and unlawful policing tactics” displayed during the protest, denouncing them as “an outrageous act of unfortunate policing against these defenseless protesters.” Amnesty International has urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the police officers involved in the arrests and subsequent beatings of protesters, highlighting the need for accountability in human rights violations.
Khanyo Farisè, Deputy Regional Director of Amnesty International for East and Southern Africa, stated that Manhique’s case symbolizes the impunity enjoyed by security forces in Mozambique. This impunity is evident in the violent dispersal of peaceful assemblies, with reports indicating over 300 fatalities in the crackdown on protests since the elections last October.
The scrutiny of Mozambique’s security forces has intensified due to their excessive use of force during public gatherings mourning the late rapper, Azagaia. Amnesty International’s statement aligns with a previous call from Human Rights Watch (HRW) for a prompt investigation into police use of force during Azagaia’s funeral procession, which took place on March 14.
The peaceful march, attended by over 400 individuals, was organized to pay tribute to the late Azagaia, a renowned critic of governance in Mozambique. Activist Quitéria Guirrengane noted that the march intended to convey that “independence is freedom.”
Amnesty International’s appeal for justice in Inocêncio Manhique’s case underscores the need for accountability regarding police actions in Mozambique. The ongoing impunity faced by security forces raises concerns about the treatment of peaceful protesters. Furthermore, the tragic events surrounding public gatherings in honor of social critics like Azagaia reveal critical issues regarding human rights and the principles of lawful policing in the nation.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
