Mozambique’s ruling party wins disputed presidential poll

Election officials in Mozambique on Thursday announced that the ruling party, Frelimo, has won the country’s disputed elections extending its five-decade grip on power

The party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, will replace President Filipe Nyusi, who is stepping down after the maximum two terms.

Frelimo has ruled the country since its independence from Portugal in 1975 and the polls were widely expected to return it to power.

The electoral commission said Chapo had won 70 per cent of the vote. His closest challenger, Venancio Mondlane, who was backed by the Podemos party, got 20 per cent.

Mondlane displaced former rebel movement and opposition party, Renamo, whose candidate came a distant third.

Amid claims of fraud and vote rigging from election observers and the opposition, there have been violent protests in several towns following the announcement of the results.

European Union election observers cast doubts on the integrity of the poll, saying it did not meet international standards.

They said there had been “irregularities during counting and unjustified alteration of election results”.

Opposition parties have also cried fraud and nationwide protests on Monday called for by Podemos were dispersed by police firing live rounds and tear gas.

Mondlane has again called for a nationwide strike, on Thursday and Friday, in protest against the alleged rigging.

Mondlane has until December to contest the results.

Chapo will be officially sworn into office in January.

The 9 October polls were also parliamentary and provincial elections. In the legislative elections, Frelimo also obtained a significant victory.

It secured the majority of seats in the Assembly of the Republic, strengthening its political control in Mozambique.

*Violence-marred poll

Protests erupted in Mozambique following the assassination of two opposition leaders, lawyer Elvino Dias and Podemos parliamentary candidate Paulo Guambe.

The pair was gunned down when assailants fired multiple rounds into the vehicle they were traveling in.

The tragic development sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with the United States urging a thorough investigation into the murders.

Police repel protesters

The Mozambican police have responded to the protests by restricting gatherings in central Maputo, suppressing opposition demonstrations.

The opposition party has accused the government of being behind the killings, allegations that the authorities have denied.

The international community is calling for calm and an impartial probe into the assassinations.

The situation remains tense, with many fearing further violence and unrest.

Mozambique

Mozambique, located in Southeastern Africa, is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse natural resources.

With a population of over 30 million people, Mozambique has a complex history, having gained independence from Portugal in 1975 after a lengthy struggle.

Today, the country faces development challenges, including poverty and corruption, but its growing economy, fueled by natural gas reserves and tourism, holds promise for a brighter future.

Mozambique’s vibrant culture, influenced by African, Portuguese, and Islamic traditions, is reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine, making it a fascinating destination for visitors and a resilient nation with great potential.

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