At least 2,500 people are expected to attend the inauguration of Mozambique’s newly elected president, Daniel Chapo, on January 15. However, the participation of invited foreign dignitaries remains uncertain, as confirmations are still pending.
Eldevina Materula, Mozambique’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, stated that invitations have been extended to international organizations, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union, and various European leaders, including Portugal. The ceremony will take place at Maputo’s historic Independence Square, a central location in the country’s capital.
Chapo, a candidate from the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo), won the presidency with 65.17% of the vote, succeeding outgoing President Filipe Nyusi. Frelimo also retained its majority in parliament following the October 9 general elections. However, Chapo’s victory has sparked widespread protests, particularly from supporters of opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who disputes the election results.
Mondlane, who secured 24% of the vote, claims he was the rightful winner, and his supporters have taken to the streets demanding what they call the “restoration of electoral truth.” These protests have led to barricades, looting, and violent clashes with police, who have responded with force to try and quell the unrest.
Materula assured the public that security arrangements for the inauguration are in place, with the Ministry of the Interior ensuring a safe and orderly event.
The ongoing protests have escalated tensions across the country, with nearly 300 deaths and over 500 injuries reported by civil society organizations monitoring the unrest. In addition to Mondlane, Chapo faced opposition from Ossufo Momade of the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), who garnered 6.62% of the vote, and Lutero Simango of the Democratic Movement of Mozambique, who earned 4.02%.
Despite the challenges, the government remains committed to a peaceful transition of power, as the country prepares for a new chapter in its leadership.