Mozambique Ruling Party Wins Presidential Elections After Tensions

Daniel Chapo, the ruling Frelimo party candidate, has been declared the winner of Mozambique’s presidential election, securing over 70% of the vote. The victory extends Frelimo’s reign over Mozambique to 49 years, solidifying its control since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
However, the win is overshadowed by allegations of electoral fraud and manipulation by the opposition. Independent candidate Venancio Mondlane, who came in second with over 20% of the vote, has claimed victory, citing widespread irregularities.
The opposition Renamo party, which came third, also condemned the election, with its candidate Ossufo Momade garnering over 5% of the vote.
The announcement of the results sparked protests from the opposition, who accused the ruling party of systematic deceit. These protests were met with a forceful response from police, who dispersed demonstrators using tear gas. The unrest culminated in the tragic killings of two opposition figures: Elvino Dias, a lawyer and advisor to Mondlane, and Paulo Guambe, the party spokesperson. Both were shot dead in their car in the capital, Maputo, last Friday.
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Mondlane accused the security forces of carrying out the killings, while police have launched an investigation. Frelimo has condemned the killings as a “macabre act.”
Chapo, in his victory speech, condemned the killings and criticized the opposition’s protests. He pledged to “try to do better for the Mozambican people” regardless of their background, promising unity and inclusivity in his leadership.
At 47, Chapo will become Mozambique’s first president born after independence, assuming office in January. His tenure will be marked by challenges, including addressing the allegations of fraud, managing the tense political climate, and navigating the country’s ongoing economic and social development.
Source: Al Jazeera