Mozambique: Four killed in medical facility attack January 22

Event

According to local witnesses, gunmen attacked a medical facility in Macorococho village (Nhamatanda district, Central Sofala), leaving four people dead. While the identities of the assailants remain unknown, the government has blamed the attack on former guerilla and political opposition group Remano, who dismissed the accusation. Similar attacks are possible in Nhamatanda district over the near term.

Context

This is the first attack since President Filipe Nyusi began his second term on January 15.

Despite the Maputo Peace and National Reconciliation Agreement signed between Renamo and Frelimo leaders on August 6, 2019, the electoral campaign was one of the most violent in Mozambique's history, killing at least 10 people and triggering a recrudescence of tensions between the two frontrunners.

Advice

Individuals in Mozambique are advised to keep abreast of the situation, avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public, avoid polling stations and any public demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.