08 Dec 2023 | 03:04 PM UTC
Mozambique: Opposition party announces shutdown strike in Maputo, Dec. 11; further protests possible nationwide /update 6
Opposition party plans shutdown strike in Maputo, Mozambique, Dec. 11 following contested elections; further protests possible nationwide.
The lead opposition party, the Mozambican National Resistance Movement (Renamo), has called for a shutdown strike in Maputo for Dec. 11 amid elevated tensions following the Oct. 11 municipal election. Participation in the action is unconfirmed as of writing but could be considerable.
Further related protests are likely nationwide over the coming days, especially in large urban centers, and in Maputo Dec. 11. Possible protests locations include along Avenida 24 de Julho and near the Statue of Samora Machel. Elsewhere, gatherings are likely in areas where the opposition enjoys a higher level of support, such as Beira and Quelimane, where protests may materialize near government buildings, political party offices, and along major routes.
Authorities will likely maintain an increased security posture in Maputo and nationwide. Measures may include the deployment of checkpoints, increased patrols near urban centers, border restrictions, and curfews. Clashes between supporters of the ruling Liberation Front of Mozambique (Frelimo), Renamo, and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM) supporters, as well as with security forces, are likely at any protests that materialize. Disruptions to urban and intercity road travel, business operations, and telecommunications are likely during any significant civil unrest or preemptive security operations that may occur.
Exercise caution while operating in Mozambique. Avoid all gatherings, political events, and election-related activities, as well as concentrations of security forces. Exercise caution near police offices, and government buildings. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor local news for updates on possible curfews or information on road conditions, as protestors may not announce actions in advance. Heed the advice of local authorities. If encountering police checkpoints, do not attempt to bypass security without authorities' permission. Plan for possible business disruptions on Dec. 11 due to increased employee absenteeism.
Approximately 22 parties and civil society organizations ran for local mayoral and legislative positions. Election day proceeded relatively peacefully, with minor delays reported in some localities. While the National Elections Commission (CNE) announced that the ruling Liberation Front of Mozambique (Frelimo) won 64 of 65 municipalities on Oct. 26, the Constitutional Council overturned the announcement on Nov. 24. It ruled that Frelimo won 56 municipalities including Maputo, Renamo won four municipalities, and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM) won one. Additionally, the Constitutional Council called for new elections in four other municipalities. The reruns in Nacala (Nampula Province), Milange (Zambezia Province), Gurue (Zambezia Province), and Marromeu (Sofala Province) will be held Dec. 10.
Both Renamo and the MDM rejected the results and demonstrations followed each of these announcements, including in Beira and Quelimane, and with reports of violence in Maputo, Nampula, and Nacala, among other locations. Security forces have consistently employed tear gas and reportedly fired warning shots over the heads of demonstrators to disperse crowds. According to authorities, about 70 protesters have been arrested, with several individuals being injured. There have been conflicting reports of fatalities, with some civil society groups claiming two persons were killed in the violence, but official sources asserting that there were no deaths.
Frelimo has won every national election since the end of Mozambique's civil war. Neither Renamo nor the MDM has been about to mount a serious challenge to the ruling party outside of certain pockets of opposition support. Election periods have consistently proven disruptive. Clashes between supporters of rival political camps, as well as between activists and police, are relatively common.
