21 Dead as Violence Erupts in Mozambique Following Election Court Ruling

Post-election tensions in Mozambique escalate into violence, leaving 21 people dead after a controversial court ruling. Authorities call for calm amidst growing unrest.

At least 21 individuals have lost their lives due to violent unrest in Mozambique, occurring after the Constitutional Council upheld the long-standing Frelimo party’s victory in October’s presidential election. This announcement was made by Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda late Tuesday.

On Monday, the court upheld Daniel Chapo as the winner with 65.17% of the vote, dismissing claims of extensive fraud and solidifying his position as Frelimo’s candidate. This decision triggered a series of protests from opposition supporters who continue to assert that the election was rigged.

Protests have broken out across the nation, with demonstrators obstructing roads, setting tires on fire, and engaging in clashes with security forces. In multiple provinces, public buildings and vehicles have been damaged amid rising anger.

The violence has led to the arrest of at least 78 individuals, and the government has cautioned that more detentions may occur as protests persist. Minister Ronda informed state broadcaster TVM that “the armed and defense forces will enhance their presence in critical areas,” highlighting efforts to strengthen security measures for restoring order.

The opposition, headed by politician Venâncio Mondlane, has dismissed the court’s ruling and accused Frelimo of manipulating the election. According to Mondlane’s party, the election process was compromised by voter intimidation, ballot stuffing, and irregularities in vote counting.

Although Frelimo denies it, allegations of vote rigging are not new. Since gaining independence in 1975, the ruling party has governed Mozambique and often faced criticism for consolidating power and suppressing opposition.

Growing Tensions and Increasing Violence

The announcement from the Constitutional Council has intensified tensions in a nation grappling with economic difficulties, widespread poverty, and an ongoing Islamist insurgency in the northern Cabo Delgado province. In urban centers such as Maputo, Beira, and Nampula, protesters have been particularly outspoken. Police forces have responded by using tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds.

Local activists report that several deaths occurred during clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Human rights groups have called on the government to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of peaceful protesters.