Mozambique Protest Results in Violence Against Opposition Leader’s Convoy
Violence erupted in Mozambique as police fired on opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane’s convoy during a protest, injuring at least 16 individuals. The incident occurred as President Daniel Chapo sought to sign a political agreement amidst ongoing tensions from a disputed election. International condemnation followed, emphasizing the need for dialogue and respect for human rights in light of the ongoing unrest.
Mozambican police dispersed a protest led by opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, resulting in at least a dozen injuries, as reported by both Mondlane’s team and a civil society group. Eyewitnesses stated that police fired live rounds at Mondlane’s convoy, which was participating in an anti-government demonstration in Maputo. Authorities have yet to provide any comments regarding the incident.
The protests coincided with impending formal negotiations led by President Daniel Chapo, who has recently taken office, aimed at resolving tensions stemming from last month’s disputed election. Mondlane, despite being a prominent voice of protest, was notably excluded from these discussions.
According to a statement from Mondlane’s office, police actions escalated as his convoy was targeted with gunfire and tear gas during an organized procession. The Interior Minister, Paulo Chachine, commented on the event, asserting the need for police actions to maintain order and denying any intent to harm Mondlane.
Reports from the civil society group Plataforma Decide indicated that 16 individuals sustained injuries during the clash, although local media have yet to verify these figures. Mondlane’s aides expressed concerns regarding his condition and whereabouts following the violent encounter.
Visuals shared online depicted chaos during the protest as shots rang out, causing panic among the participants. Witnesses described the police response as unexpected and fierce, with one protester recalling the feeling of an ‘‘ambush’’. Furthermore, the tragic loss of life was reported, with claims that two children from a nearby school died as well.
The response from Portugal, Mozambique’s former colonial ruler, condemned the violence aimed at Mondlane and called for an end to hostilities while advocating for human rights. Meanwhile, Chapo’s administration has been under scrutiny for failing to engage Mondlane constructively in dialogues, raising concerns within the opposition.
Despite the violence, Mondlane has vowed to sustain activism, labeling the political agreement excluding him as one that lacks public representation. Furthermore, statistics reveal nearly 400 fatalities linked to the protests since October, lending weight to the gravity of the ongoing crisis in Mozambique.
The protest against the Mozambican police reflects significant tensions following last month’s disputed election. With injuries reported and tragic fatalities among bystanders, including children, the situation underscores the increasing urgency for constructive political dialogue. As President Chapo continues to navigate his administration’s response, Mondlane’s commitment to protest and advocate for the rights of the populace remains unwavering, further complicating the political landscape in Mozambique.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
