Mozambique’s President Filipe Nyusi warned on Wednesday that calls for violent protests could be deemed criminal acts as tensions escalated ahead of the imminent release of election results. Leading opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane has called for a campaign of “terror” lasting 25 days following the murder of his lawyer, anticipating that results from the October 9 elections, expected to be published on Thursday, will show the ruling Frelimo party winning.
“Encouraging the public to revolt, spreading misinformation, and inciting chaos for political purposes can be considered criminal behavior,” President Nyusi stated during a press conference. He acknowledged the citizens’ right to protest but expressed concern over the prospect of demonstrations against a process that has yet to conclude.
Earlier on Wednesday, thousands gathered outside Mozambique’s capital to mourn lawyer Elvino Dias, who was killed alongside opposition ally Paulo Guambe. The two were ambushed and shot in their vehicle early Saturday while preparing to challenge the election results on behalf of Mondlane and the Podemos party. Mondlane accused security forces of shooting at them 25 times in a Facebook post and vowed to initiate “25 days of terror” in retaliation.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the murders, with Frelimo, which has been in power for 49 years, condemning the “horrific act.”
Concerns have also been raised by European Union election observers regarding the legitimacy of the current elections, citing “irregularities during counting and unjustified alterations of election results at polling stations and district levels.”
Electoral violence is not uncommon in Mozambique; last year, several fatalities occurred following Frelimo’s victory in municipal elections. Mondlane has escalated his rhetoric, discussing a “revolutionary roadmap” on social media. The 50-year-old former radio presenter was among a group of protesters who faced tear gas from police on Monday.
Initial reports suggest low voter turnout in the coastal nation of approximately 33 million people, which could further undermine the credibility of the election. Although Nyusi is set to step down after two terms allowed by the constitution, his party’s candidate, 47-year-old Daniel Chapo, is widely expected to win. Other presidential candidates include Ossufo Momade, 63, from the Renamo party, and Lutero Simango, 64, from the Mozambique Democratic Movement.
As the electoral landscape shifts, the emergence of Mondlane and the Podemos party highlights a new dynamic in Mozambique’s political scene. Emilia Columbo from the Center for Strategic and International Studies noted that Mondlane and Podemos have effectively utilized social media to connect with the youth in Mozambique, who are eager for change.
