Violence erupts in Mozambique following recent elections, with protests resulting in 10 fatalities and multiple injuries. Explore the latest on the situation and reactions from authorities.
According to reports from medical associations, gunfire during protests over contested election results in Mozambique resulted in at least 10 deaths and left 63 people injured. The demonstrations began after the electoral commission announced that Frelimo, the ruling party for 49 years, had won the October 9 election. Opposition parties and observers alleged fraud tainted the outcome of this vote.
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In reaction to the protests, police deployed teargas and live ammunition. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda explained that security forces took these actions to reestablish order during the unrest. From October 18 to 26, there were reports of 73 shooting incidents leading to 10 fatalities, as stated by both the Medical Association of Mozambique and the Order of Doctors of Mozambique. Human Rights Watch verified independently that there were at least 11 deaths and over 50 significant injuries but highlighted that actual figures could be higher because many injured individuals did not seek hospital treatment.
Tensions continue to escalate, particularly after an opposition lawyer and official were killed only days following the election. Venancio Mondlane, the opposition candidate who finished second yet asserts he won, has urged for new protests beginning on Thursday. Anticipating further unrest, residents of Maputo were observed stocking up on essential supplies by Wednesday.
