Mozambique President Announces Date for State Reform Agreement Signing

Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo announced that an agreement on state reforms will be signed on March 5, 2024. This follows a consensus reached after dialogues with various political parties amidst ongoing social unrest and protests stemming from disputed elections. The agreement is expected to address critical issues affecting the nation, including constitutional reforms and the rising cost of living.

The President of Mozambique, Daniel Chapo, has declared that an agreement concerning state reforms will be signed on March 5, 2024, following discussions with various political parties. Chapo announced a unanimous consensus on the proposal after a dialogue session aimed at addressing the issues stemming from the contested October elections, leading to the decision to establish this date for the signing.

The forthcoming agreement will involve political parties that hold seats in parliament, including Podemos, Renamo, and MDM, along with the extra-parliamentary New Democracy. During the dialogue session, additional parties from provincial and municipal assemblies were also present to review the document. The signing ceremony is scheduled to occur at the Joaquim Chissano International Conference Centre in the capital at 3 p.m. local time on March 5.

Moreover, President Chapo has indicated that constitutional revisions may be on the table as part of ongoing discussions aimed at resolving the post-election crisis. This dialogue will include at least four additional parties represented in provincial assemblies. Since the October elections, Mozambique has faced significant social unrest, instigated by protests led by former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who contests the election results that favored Chapo and Frelimo.

The protests, although having diminished in scale, continue across various regions. Apart from disputing the election outcomes, citizens are raising concerns over the escalating cost of living and related social issues. Reports from the non-governmental organization Plataforma Eleitoral Decide indicate that at least 353 fatalities, including approximately 20 minors, have resulted from these protests, with around 3,500 individuals injured.

The government has confirmed the loss of at least 80 lives and the devastation of numerous properties, including 1,677 commercial establishments, 177 schools, and 23 health centers during the unrest. These developments highlight the critical need for effective dialogue and reforms to address the nation’s challenges and restore peace.

The announcement of the signing of a state reform agreement in Mozambique marks a significant step towards addressing the political crisis following the contested elections. With a comprehensive inclusive dialogue involving various political parties, it aims to seek resolutions for social unrest fueled by election discrepancies, rising living costs, and escalating protests. Continued monitoring and engagement are essential to ensure the success of these efforts and the restoration of stability in Mozambique.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com