POST-election violence and a heavy-handed police response are now threatening to destabilize Mozambique, a southern African nation that has enjoyed relative peace and stability since achieving democracy more than two decades ago, according to Reuters. At least 10 people were shot dead, and another 63 were injured by gunfire during last week’s protests over a contentious election outcome. This information was confirmed in a joint statement by the Medical Association of Mozambique and the Order of Doctors of Mozambique, released on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.
The protests erupted both before and after the electoral commission declared the ruling party, Frelimo, victorious in the October 9 election, extending its 49-year rule. Opposition parties, civil society groups, and international observers have raised concerns over alleged election irregularities, claiming the process was marred by fraud.
Reuters reports that while the electoral commission has declined to address the fraud allegations, Frelimo has also remained silent on requests for comment. Police reportedly responded to the unrest with tear gas and live ammunition, with Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda describing the protests as violent and claiming security forces had been “compelled to restore public order,” resulting in fatalities. “Between Oct. 18 and 26, 73 shooting incidents were recorded, resulting in 10 deaths,” the medical associations reported on Facebook.
Human Rights Watch has indicated that the true death toll may be even higher, noting that many victims did not report to hospitals. The organization independently confirmed 11 deaths and over 50 serious injuries from gunshots. Tensions have further escalated after an opposition lawyer and official were fatally shot in their vehicle three days after the election. The U.S. government and other international entities have since called for an investigation.
Venancio Mondlane, the official runner-up in the election who claims he is the legitimate winner, has urged supporters to join a renewed week-long demonstration set to begin on Thursday. Anticipating further unrest, Maputo residents began stocking up on essential supplies on Wednesday, Reuters reports.
