Mozambican police used tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters in Maputo on Thursday, marking the most significant protest so far against the ruling Frelimo party, which claimed victory in a disputed election on October 9.
Growing public dissatisfaction surrounds the announcement of Frelimo's continued rule, now nearing half a century. Human rights organizations report that at least 18 people have died due to police actions since protests began.
The election sparked widespread discontent among young Mozambicans who rallied behind independent candidate Venancio Mondlane. Mondlane has openly criticized the election as fraudulent and called for demonstrations.
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Chanting slogans like “Power to the people” and “Frelimo must fall,” protesters blocked roads with burning tires and displayed handmade signs supporting Mondlane.
Julia Macamo, a 55-year-old vendor, voiced her anger after experiencing tear gas exposure while protesting in Maputo’s Maxaquene neighborhood. “If we don’t act now, change won’t happen,” she asserted, emphasizing a joint call to end Frelimo's rule.
Mozambique’s Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Director, Adriano Nuvunga, noted the unprecedented scale of these protests. International observers and civil society groups have also raised concerns, stating that election results appeared manipulated.
Frelimo has denied allegations of vote rigging in previous elections and has not commented on the current unrest. President Filipe Nyusi has remained silent, while his defense minister has threatened military intervention.
Mozambique’s Constitutional Council has yet to certify the election results, asking the electoral commission to clarify discrepancies. Meanwhile, economic frustrations run deep despite Mozambique's resource wealth, including billion-dollar gas projects by TotalEnergies and Exxon Mobil, which are currently stalled by insurgency threats.
As tensions grow, South Africa closed a major border crossing and urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Mozambique, and logistics firm Grindrod suspended operations for security.
