08 Nov 2024 | 03:35 PM UTC
Mozambique: Further opposition protests likely through mid-November following clashes /update 8
Increased security, violent protests likely across Mozambique through mid-November following election-related clashes
Further opposition protests are likely across Mozambique through at least mid-November following the disputed results of the Oct. 9 election. While the National Electoral Commission (Comissao Nacional de Eleicoes, CNE) has announced Daniel Chapo and the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) as the victors, the results have yet to be certified by the Constitutional Council. Opposition parties, including the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), and Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), have rejected and appealed the results.
Venancio Mondlane of the Podemos has repeatedly called for nationwide demonstrations; his latest campaign called for nationwide protests near the CNE and Frelimo offices Oct. 31-Nov. 7. Protests peaked on Nov. 7, with gatherings occurring across Maputo: road blockages, clashes, looting, and acts of minor arson were reported; armed forces were deployed to quell the violence. The security response included the firing of tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition. As of Nov. 8, reports suggest at least 20 protesters have been killed; thousands have also been arrested. Nationwide internet and telecommunication disruptions were reported. South African authorities have closed the Lebombo border post due to protest activity in the nearby
Thousands of protesters are likely to join nationwide rallies in the coming weeks. Protest activity will likely occur in large urban areas, such as Maputo, Beira, and Nampula, as well as the northern provinces of Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Zambezia. In Maputo, movements will likely concentrate near Frelimo and CNE offices near Kenneth Kauna Avenue and Joaquin Chissano Avenue; the upcoming Maputo City Day on Nov. 10 especially could likely see opposition protests. Demonstrations could lead to road blockages and acts of arson; shutdowns could lead to business and public services closures. Additional protests near borders could lead to closures and affect freight and passenger travel. Increased security is likely nationwide, especially near protest locations. Security measures may include checkpoints, increased patrolling in urban centers, border restrictions, internet and telecommunication blackouts, and curfews. Violence between opposing party members or involving security services is likely and will pose an incidental danger to bystanders. Peripheral incidents of criminal violence, not necessarily connected with the election, are possible.
Some foreign diplomatic missions have warned of potential rallies and disruptions and advised their citizens to minimize unnecessary movements during such events.
Exercise caution while operating in Mozambique through mid-November. Avoid all gatherings, political events, election-related activities, and concentrations of security forces. Avoid displaying overtly yellow clothes as they may be associated with the political opposition. Exercise caution near police offices, border posts, 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. Plan accordingly for disruptions to freight and passenger travel across borders, as well as for telecommunications and commercial operations. Consider alternative modes of communication for critical business operations. Monitor local news for information on possible curfews and road conditions. Heed the advice of local authorities. Do not attempt to pass through police checkpoints without authorities' permission. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
On Oct. 9, Mozambican citizens voted to elect a new president, parliament, and regional governmental officials. Election periods can be disruptive in Mozambique. Opposition parties called the process fraudulent before the election results were announced, and Mondlane claimed an early victory. On Oct. 24, the CNE confirmed Chapo, Frelimo’s new leader, as president with 70 percent of the vote; Frelimo secured 195 of 250 parliamentary seats and won all provincial governorships. Over half of registered voters abstained.
Nationwide protests followed each announcement, mostly led by Podemos and Mondlane. They first called for a strike on Oct. 21 following the allegedly political killing of two high-ranking Podemos members. They then called for a two-day nationwide shutdown Oct. 24-25 in anticipation of the release of election results. Other disruptive events included vandalizing a police office in Chalaua, Nampula Province on Oct. 25, and road blockages, and looting in Ressano Garcia near the Lebombo border with South Africa.
