22 Oct 2024 | 05:14 PM UTC
Mozambique: Opposition calls for nationwide shutdown Oct. 24-25 following recent elections /update 4
Opposition calls for nationwide shutdown in Mozambique, Oct. 24-25. Heightened security likely nationwide through late October.
Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has called for a two-day nationwide shutdown Oct. 24-25 in anticipation of the release of election results by the National Electoral Commission (CNE). Some opposition candidates and observers have called the process fraudulent ahead of the final outcome. Authorities have until Oct. 24 to publish the results; a second round will occur if no presidential candidate receives an outright majority. Mondlane, the candidate of the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos) party, has already claimed victory.
Protests are likely nationwide ahead of and following the election results. The shutdown could also lead to nationwide protests, likely blocking roads and preventing businesses from operating. Hotspots will likely be concentrated in large urban areas in Maputo, Nampula, and Beira, as well as the northern provinces of Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Zambezia. Demonstrations could draw thousands of participants.
Increased police presence is likely nationwide in the coming days, particularly near protest locations. Measures may include the deployment of checkpoints, increased patrolling near urban centers, border restrictions, and curfew implementation. Violence between opposing party members or involving security services is likely, posing an incidental danger to bystanders. Disruptions to urban and intercity road travel, business operations, and telecommunications will likely occur during civil unrest or security operations.
Some foreign diplomatic missions have also warned of potential rallies and disruptions and advised their citizens to minimize unnecessary movements during such events.
Exercise caution while operating in Mozambique through late October. Avoid all gatherings, political events, election-related activities, and concentration of security forces. Avoid displaying overtly yellow clothes, as these may be associated with the opposition. Exercise caution near police offices and government buildings. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Reconfirm appointments and plan for increased employee absenteeism during strike actions. 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 bypass security without authorities' permission.
On Oct. 9, citizens voted to elect their new President, Parliament, and regional governments. Election periods can prove disruptive in Mozambique. The system is de jure, democratic, and multipartisan, though accusations of fraud are common. Incumbent President Filipe Nyusi is stepping down, having reached the Constitutional term limit; his Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) party invested in its new leader, Daniel Chapo. They face challenges from the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo) of Ossufo Momade, the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM) of Lutero Simango, and Venancio Mondlane (Podemos).
Preliminary results give Frelimo a large victory, with Podemos coming second. The campaign and election proceeded relatively peacefully despite reports of ballot box issues and polling stations not opening. International observers have also noted irregularities. However, Podemos called for a nationwide strike on Oct. 21 following the killing of two of its high-ranking members, which Podemos alleges were politically motivated. A related gathering in Maputo was dispersed by police with teargas and live ammunition.
