Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, expressed deep concern over the rising violence in Mozambique following the announcement of the country’s recent election results. In a statement issued on Thursday, Mahamat strongly condemned the unrest that has erupted after the Constitutional Council’s declaration of Daniel Chapo as the winner of the October 9 general elections.
The post-election violence, which has claimed the lives of over 100 civilians and left hundreds more injured, has sparked widespread chaos across various regions of Mozambique. Local media reports indicate that the violence began shortly after the Constitutional Council officially confirmed Chapo’s victory, triggering violent protests and clashes between civilians and security forces. The unrest has raised fears of further instability in the country, which has faced political tensions for years.
The AU Chairperson expressed his condolences to the families of those affected by the violence, offering a message of solidarity with the victims. He urged all parties involved to de-escalate tensions, emphasizing the importance of restoring peace and preventing further bloodshed. Mahamat called on Mozambique’s security forces to exercise restraint and focus on ensuring the safety of citizens, maintaining law and order while avoiding the use of excessive force.
In his statement, Mahamat also appealed to Mozambique’s government, as well as all political and social actors in the country, to engage in meaningful dialogue to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. He stressed that political solutions and mutual cooperation are crucial in preventing additional loss of life and the destruction of property. “The stability of Mozambique is at stake, and it is essential that all stakeholders work together to preserve peace and uphold the rule of law,” Mahamat stated.
The African Union reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting Mozambique during this challenging time. The organization expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Mozambican government, local leaders, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to address the violence and work toward a peaceful and democratic resolution. The AU emphasized the importance of safeguarding constitutional democracy, which remains a cornerstone for the country’s future development and stability.
This violent outbreak follows a tense election period in Mozambique, raising serious concerns about the country’s political climate and the potential for prolonged unrest. The AU’s call for dialogue underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring a peaceful transition of power in the country.
While the election was initially seen as a potential turning point for Mozambique’s political landscape, the post-election violence has cast a shadow over the outcome, with calls from both local and international communities for an immediate end to the violence and a return to peaceful negotiations.
As the situation in Mozambique remains volatile, the international community, including the AU, continues to monitor developments closely, hoping for a swift resolution to prevent further escalation.