Former Renamo guerrillas protested in Nampula by closing the provincial delegation, demanding the oust of provincial delegate Abiba Aba and party president Ossufo Momade due to dissatisfaction with leadership and electoral losses. The party faces challenges in retaining its former strength and must address internal divisions and member grievances. Immediate dialogue is necessary to unify and realign the party following recent electoral setbacks.
Dozens of former guerrillas from the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo) protested by closing the party’s provincial delegation in Nampula, demanding the removal of provincial delegate Abiba Aba and party president Ossufo Momade. Protestors expressed dissatisfaction with Aba’s alleged arrogance and lack of cooperation with former combatants in the party.
The dissent within the party intensified following the October 9 election results, where Renamo secured 28 parliamentary seats, losing its position as the second-largest party to the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), which gained 43 seats. This outcome has led former members to challenge Momade’s leadership more vocally.
In a related development, Renamo postponed its National Council meeting set for March 7 and 8 without announcing a new date. Many members, including former guerrillas, had requested this meeting to address various grievances regarding leadership and party direction, especially following their electoral losses.
Former fighters, recalling the impact of late leader Afonso Dhlakama’s presidency, lamented a division within the party under Momade’s leadership. Many expressed feelings of neglect and deception concerning promises made during the Demilitarization, Disarmament, and Reintegration process.
Ernesto Douglas, a participant in the protest, noted that communication breakdowns with Momade’s administration have further fueled dissatisfaction. Former guerrillas have demanded better engagement and dialogue, which they feel is lacking in the current leadership.
In response to the protest, Renamo spokesperson Nelson Carvalho clarified that the closure of the provincial office was a precautionary measure to avoid potential confrontations, not an action initiated by the protestors. The party aims to maintain harmony among its members while addressing their concerns.
Ossufo Momade, who recently ran for President, received only 5.81% of the votes, reflecting serious challenges to his leadership. His tenure has faced scrutiny since he succeeded Dhlakama after the latter’s death in 2018. Current political dynamics indicate a need for effective leadership to realign with the party’s foundational principles from its civil war history.
The protest by former Renamo guerrillas in Nampula highlights deep-seated discontent with the party’s current leadership and reflects broader challenges faced by Renamo after recent electoral setbacks. Calls for restructuring and re-engagement from leadership signify the need for addressing internal divisions and restoring the party’s foundational values. The postponement of key meetings only adds to the urgency for dialogue among members.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
