The European Union (EU) has strongly condemned the wave of post-election violence in Mozambique, which has claimed 151 lives since October 21, according to election monitoring group Plataforma Decide.
In a statement issued on December 24, the EU expressed deep concern over the unrest following Mozambique’s October 9 elections, officially confirmed by the Constitutional Council earlier this week. The results declared Daniel Chapo as the President-elect, sparking renewed violence that left 21 dead on Monday alone.
The EU called on all parties to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could worsen tensions. It emphasized the need for accountability and justice in addressing human rights violations.
Acknowledging irregularities reported during the election process, the EU Election Observation Mission (EOM), invited by Mozambique’s authorities, highlighted issues with vote counting and unjustified alterations of results. The EU urged electoral bodies to enhance transparency and pledged support for future electoral reforms based on EOM recommendations.
The EU also appealed to the President-elect and the new administration to engage in constructive dialogue with opposition groups and civil society organizations. Such engagement, it said, is vital to restoring trust, upholding democratic values, and preserving the social contract between the government and its citizens.
Reaffirming its long-standing partnership with Mozambique, the EU reiterated its commitment to supporting a peaceful and prosperous future for the Mozambican people.