Unrest in Mozambique Following Disputed Election Results Claims 21 Lives

At least 21 people have died in violent protests across Mozambique following the confirmation of Daniel Chapo's electoral victory. The unrest has led to widespread destruction and raised concerns about security responses.

At least 21 individuals have lost their lives in Mozambique amid intense clashes following the confirmation of Daniel Chapo as the winner of the recent presidential election. Demonstrators have raised allegations of election rigging by the ruling Frelimo party, prompting significant unrest since the elections were held in October.

During a press briefing, Pascoal Ronda, the interior minister, noted that among the deceased were two police officers, while authorities have arrested 71 individuals related to the escalating violence. Human rights organizations have reported allegations of excessive police force used to quell protests, including the deployment of live ammunition and rubber bullets against protesters.

Tensions flared further last Monday when Mozambique’s top court upheld results favoring Chapo. Protesters took to the streets, reacting violently through burning tires and obstructing roads with debris. Ronda detailed that hundreds of structures have been looted, including essential services such as police stations, schools, hospitals, and even a penitentiary from which 86 inmates were freed.

Ronda warned that such turmoil threatens Mozambique's stability and the integrity of its democratic values. He emphasized the necessity for defense and security forces to act decisively to restore order and accountability for those responsible for the unrest. The situation highlights the fragility of Mozambique's emerging democracy and the challenges it faces in maintaining public safety and trust amidst allegations of electoral malfeasance.