Charges Against Mozambique’s Mondlane’s Treasurer Raise Legal Concerns

Gloria Nobre Chire, treasurer for Venancio Mondlane, has been charged with offences against state security and criminal conspiracy. Detained unlawfully for 48 hours, her legal team struggled to contact her. Criticism from her lawyer raises questions about police legality and potential political harassment, with specific details of the charges yet undisclosed.

The Mozambican Public Prosecutor’s Office has lodged formal charges against Gloria Nobre Chire, who serves as the treasurer for former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane. She faces accusations of crimes against state security and criminal conspiracy, as reported in the independent news publication “Mediafax.”

Chire was apprehended at her residence in Alto Mae, Maputo, and was held unlawfully for 48 hours without family contact at a police station. Her legal team struggled to reach her, with police violating legal protocols by denying communication with her lawyers until late intervention by the Mozambican Bar Association enabled contact.

Lawyer Mutota Escova criticized the legality of her detention, noting that the arrest warrant dated back to February, which raises concerns about its delayed execution. He stated, “The arrest is beyond comprehension. The behaviour of the police is entirely illegal.” To facilitate Chire’s legal representation, The Mozambican Bar Association approached the Attorney-General’s Office, leading to eventual access for family and legal representatives.

Mondlane has expressed that Chire is facing “political harassment” and labeled her as a “political prisoner.” The authorities have yet to disclose specifics regarding the alleged security offences she is charged with.

The situation surrounding Gloria Nobre Chire raises significant concerns about legal proceedings and police conduct in Mozambique. Her formal charges, the circumstances of her illegal detention, and the lack of clarity regarding the accusations reflect issues of state security and potential political motivations. Advocacy efforts from legal representatives highlight ongoing challenges for political figures within the country.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com