Mozambique’s opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has declared three days of mourning starting Wednesday, mourning the deaths of 50 people allegedly killed by security forces during post-election protests.
In a widely watched Facebook address, Mondlane condemned the violence and reiterated calls for a recount of the October 9 elections, which saw the ruling Frelimo party win with 71% of the vote.
Mondlane, who leads the Podemos party and secured 20% of the vote, alleged widespread electoral fraud and criticized the government for targeting protesters with live ammunition.
Rights groups, including the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD), reported at least 65 deaths, with accusations of police brutality intensifying. At the upcoming Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, Amnesty International urged regional leaders to address these violations.
President Filipe Nyusi, set to leave office in January, appealed for calm and dialogue in his State of the Nation address. While acknowledging the unrest’s economic toll, he reported 19 fatalities, including five police officers, and over 800 injuries.
Nyusi urged political leaders, including Frelimo’s President-elect Daniel Chapo and other presidential candidates, to resolve disputes through mutual understanding.
The turmoil follows one of Mozambique’s most contentious elections since independence in 1975. With a growing youth voter base and heightened public awareness, tensions erupted into nationwide protests.
Nyusi emphasized the need for legal, peaceful demonstrations and warned that economic growth forecasts might be revised downward.
Mondlane, speaking from an undisclosed location due to safety concerns, called on supporters to mourn peacefully by wearing black.
He appealed to the SADC summit to advocate for democracy, end police repression, and respect for the people's electoral will.
