A nation reels in shock and fear as violent protests erupt across Mozambique, leaving at least 21 dead, following the Constitutional Council’s confirmation of the ruling party Frelimo’s controversial electoral victory. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda announced the fatalities on Tuesday, marking a grim escalation in the political crisis gripping the southern African country.
Among the dead were two police officers, and at least 25 others, including 13 law enforcement personnel, sustained injuries in clashes described as some of the worst Mozambique has seen in years. “This is a tragic situation,” Ronda said during a press briefing on national broadcaster TVM. “We’ve recorded 236 acts of severe violence since Monday, and we will respond with increased security measures.”
A Climate of Fear and Fury
The unrest, sparked by Frelimo’s victory in the October 9 elections, has plunged Mozambique into turmoil. The opposition party, led by Venancio Mondlane, alleges widespread voter fraud. Protesters have taken to the streets of Maputo, erecting barricades, burning tyres, and shutting down major roads in defiance of the court’s decision.
“This is our cry against injustice,” said a protester who spoke on condition of anonymity. “Frelimo has stolen our future, and we won’t stay silent.”
Maputo, the nation’s capital, remains eerily deserted, with businesses shuttered and residents staying indoors as armored vehicles patrol the streets. “It’s like a ghost town,” said Al Jazeera’s Haru Mutasa. “People are afraid to step outside. The tension is palpable.”
Opposition’s Call to Arms
The Constitutional Council’s ratification of Daniel Chapo’s presidency has enraged Mondlane’s supporters, who accuse the ruling party of orchestrating election fraud to maintain its half-century grip on power. In a defiant social media post, Mondlane urged his followers to prepare for “difficult days ahead.”
“History will vindicate us,” Mondlane wrote. “Our struggle is for truth and justice, and we shall not back down.”
Mondlane’s words ignited further protests, with demonstrators targeting police stations, petrol stations, banks, and public infrastructure. Authorities allege the violence is orchestrated by opposition elements, but civil society groups have accused security forces of responding with disproportionate force.
Rising Death Toll and Human Rights Concerns
Since October, over 130 lives have been lost in election-related violence, according to human rights organizations. These groups have condemned Mozambican security forces for what they describe as excessive use of force in suppressing protests.
“We are deeply concerned about the rising death toll,” said a spokesperson for a prominent human rights group. “The government must ensure that the response to protests is lawful and does not exacerbate the crisis.”
The government, however, maintains that its actions are necessary to restore order. “The armed forces will increase their presence in critical areas to prevent further violence,” Ronda said, emphasizing that 78 arrests had been made so far.
A History of Contested Elections
Frelimo, which has ruled Mozambique since independence in 1975, has faced repeated allegations of electoral malpractice. International observers have criticized the October election for lacking transparency and fairness.
“These elections failed to meet basic democratic standards,” said an analyst from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). “The opposition’s grievances are legitimate and reflect broader frustrations with corruption and economic stagnation.”
The ruling party denies any wrongdoing, dismissing accusations of fraud as baseless. “Frelimo won fair and square,” a party spokesperson said. “The opposition is simply unwilling to accept defeat.”
A Nation on Edge
The protests have taken on a life of their own, with reports of criminal elements exploiting the chaos. Al Jazeera’s Mutasa noted that some protesters had resorted to extortion, demanding money from motorists at improvised roadblocks.
“This started as a political demonstration, but it’s now a mix of genuine grievances and opportunistic criminality,” Mutasa said. “The situation is spiraling out of control.”
The unrest has also disrupted Christmas celebrations in this predominantly Christian country. Churches canceled services, and families opted for subdued gatherings as fear of violence kept people indoors.
International Community Watches Closely
The unfolding crisis has drawn international attention, with neighboring countries and global organizations calling for restraint. The African Union has urged dialogue between Frelimo and the opposition to prevent further bloodshed.
“The future of Mozambique depends on peaceful resolution,” the AU said in a statement. “We call on all parties to prioritize national unity and the welfare of the people.”
As Mozambique teeters on the brink, analysts warn that the political stalemate could have far-reaching implications for the region. “This is not just a national crisis,” said a political expert. “If unchecked, it could destabilize Southern Africa.”
