Renamo dissidents are demanding Ossufo Momade’s resignation amid protests regarding the party’s poor electoral performance. Former guerrilla fighters criticize his leadership and seek a change for more competent governance within the party. They plan to escalate protests until a new leader is appointed. Momade is reportedly unwell and receiving medical treatment abroad.
Dissidents from Mozambique’s former rebel movement Renamo have recently intensified their protests, with demonstrators closing the Renamo provincial delegation in Chimoio by using chains and padlocks, along with burning leaflets portraying their leader, Ossufo Momade. The protests stem from dissatisfaction regarding the party’s performance in the general elections of October 9, 2022, which Momade’s leadership is blamed for.
Renamo brigadier Fernando Mafenhure has publicly asserted that it is time for Momade to resign, expressing that he has exhausted his contributions to the party. Mafenhure stated, “We think it’s time for him to go home and participate in party activities as a simple member,” emphasizing that the party requires new, competent leadership. He cited that since taking over in 2019, the party’s status has declined significantly both in leadership quality and popularity.
Mafenhure expressed nostalgia for the late Renamo leader Afonso Dhlakama, remarking, “He was a fighter for true democracy,” and lamented the lack of results for the sacrifices made by demobilized fighters. Furthermore, he accused Momade of collaborating with the ruling Frelimo Party during the previous elections, declaring that Momade’s silence in response to allegations of electoral fraud indicated a troubling complicity. He insisted, “He negotiated the elections with Frelimo!”
The demonstrators are determined to escalate their actions, with plans to not only maintain their closure of the Chimoio delegation but to also close other district delegations across the country until Momade’s resignation is finalized. Mafenhure concluded with a commitment, stating, “In the coming days, we shall close the doors of all the district delegations, until he ceases to be our president. ” The ongoing unrest reflects deeper discontent within Renamo as protests continue to occur across northern and central Mozambique, coinciding with reports of Momade’s ill health and medical treatment abroad.
In summary, the Renamo dissidents are actively protesting for Ossufo Momade’s resignation due to his perceived failures in leadership, particularly following the party’s dismal performance in recent elections. Former guerrilla fighters, led by Fernando Mafenhure, are calling for a new leader to invigorate the party and have expressed frustration over their sacrifices going unrecognized. The protests represent a significant moment in Renamo’s history, showcasing internal conflicts and dissatisfaction with the current leadership.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
