Mozambique: Mondlane Refuses to Attend PGR Summons Amid Rising Unrest

Former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has been summoned by Mozambique’s Attorney General’s Office regarding post-election riots but refuses to attend, citing safety concerns after a police attack on his motorcade. His absence has led to widespread unrest in Maputo and Matola, coinciding with a national dialogue ceremony involving President Daniel Chapo.

The Mozambican Attorney General’s Office (PGR) has summoned former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane to respond to a criminal case linked to post-election riots. Despite this notification, Mondlane has no intention of attending, as stated by his legal advisor, Dinis Tivane, who confirmed that Mondlane has gone into hiding following an attack on his motorcade, viewed by supporters as an assassination attempt.

Although Mondlane’s team asserts he was unharmed during the incident, they have not disclosed his location, with some reports suggesting he may have fled to South Africa. Maputo’s police spokesperson, Leonel Muchina, refuted allegations of a murder attempt, stating that the police were responding to disperse a crowd, despite evidence showing the use of tear gas and firearms during the confrontation.

Following the incident, unrest surged in Maputo and Matola, particularly in the Patrice Lumumba neighborhood, where rioting ensued. Protesters erected barricades, set fires, and hindered traffic, leading to widespread closures of shops and halting of transportation services, including rail traffic.

This unrest notably coincided with a ceremony in Maputo, where President Daniel Chapo engaged nine political parties in signing a commitment to national dialogue. The unfortunate timing of police aggression against Mondlane posed a significant challenge to the President’s authority and undermined his message of reconciliation, providing ammunition to his political adversaries.

In conclusion, the situation surrounding Venâncio Mondlane’s refusal to comply with the PGR summons highlights ongoing political tensions in Mozambique. The attack on his motorcade and subsequent unrest in Matola reflect visible discontent and pose serious implications for the government, especially as it attempts to foster political dialogue. The conflict suggests that political stability in Mozambique remains fragile, with actions against key opposition figures significantly impacting the overall political landscape.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com