Mozambique police shot at protesters in Maputo, killing two during a demonstration led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane. The protests arise from claims of electoral fraud in the October presidential elections. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the country, marked by a history of violence against demonstrators and alleged police brutality.
On Tuesday, Mozambique police opened fire on protesters in Maputo, resulting in two fatalities during a demonstration organized by the main opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane. Witnesses and AFP journalists reported that this marks the first significant protest called by Mondlane after months of unrest following the contentious presidential elections in October, which Mondlane alleges were rigged in favor of President Daniel Chapo.
AFP photographs displayed two deceased individuals covered by blankets in the bloodied Matola area, affirming police did indeed fire on the gathering to disperse it, with one victim reportedly shot in the head. This incident is corroborated by local civil society organizations who have also reported police brutality against demonstrators.
Mondlane, who secured second place in the election, claimed that various international observers noted the numerous irregularities in the voting process. He argues that he was deprived of victory, as previous protests have claimed the lives of over 360 individuals according to Plataforma Decide, a local civil society group. Earlier this month, 14 others were harmed when police utilized live ammunition against demonstrators.
Plataforma Decide confirmed the casualties on social media, stating that police pursued and shot the victims within the neighborhood. The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) echoed the claims of police aggression, asserting that the Rapid Intervention Unit fired live rounds at their team covering the protest. Human rights officer Andre Mulungo criticized the police, emphasizing that the civilians were engaged in a peaceful demonstration at the time of the attack.
One protestor expressed his frustration, stating, “We have no jobs, nothing. They’re killing us, what are we going to do? They want blood?” President Daniel Chapo assumed office in mid-January and belongs to the Frelimo party, which has controlled Mozambique since its independence in 1975. Although Chapo claims to have garnered 65 percent of the electoral votes against Mondlane’s 24 percent, the opposition leader believes he actually secured a majority with 53 percent support and has notably challenged Frelimo’s enduring dominance.
The violent response by Mozambique police against protesters reflects the escalating tensions following the controversial presidential elections. With two fatalities reported, the incident underscores grave concerns regarding police conduct and civil rights in Mozambique. The opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, continues to advocate for accountability as unrest persists across the nation in response to perceived electoral injustices.
Original Source: www.france24.com
