Amnesty International calls for justice in the case of Inocêncio Manhique, a protester shot by police with a rubber bullet during a peaceful demonstration. Two years later, he has received no justice. The rights group criticizes police brutality and urges accountability for security forces, linking this incident to broader issues of impunity and the lack of protection for protesters’ rights in Mozambique.
Amnesty International has urged the Mozambican authorities to release the findings of the investigation into the case of Inocêncio Manhique, a protester injured by police during a peaceful demonstration. Manhique suffered a gunshot wound to the eye from a rubber bullet two years ago and has yet to receive justice despite filing a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office and the President’s promise of an investigation.
The organization has criticized the police’s reckless use of force during the protest, identifying it as an egregious act against defenseless individuals. Amnesty International called for accountability for officers involved in excessive violence against protesters, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation.
Khanyo Farisè, Deputy Regional Director of Amnesty International for East and Southern Africa, highlighted that Manhique’s case illustrates the impunity enjoyed by Mozambique’s security forces. Reports indicate that security personnel have violently suppressed peaceful protests, resulting in over 300 deaths since the elections in October.
The scrutiny on Mozambique’s security forces has intensified following their response to public gatherings honoring the late rapper Azagaia. The call for investigation comes in light of previous incidents, where Amnesty and Human Rights Watch documented police misconduct and asserted that force must only be used when absolutely necessary under UN guidelines.
The peaceful march, organized to honor the late Edson da Luz, or Azagaia, gathered more than 400 participants. Azagaia, known for his critiques of governance through music, passed away suddenly two years ago and is remembered for promoting messages of freedom and independence, as articulated by activist Quitéria Guirrengane.
In summary, Amnesty International has called for transparency and accountability in the investigation of Inocêncio Manhique’s injury caused by police during a protest. This case highlights systemic issues of police violence and impunity in Mozambique, reflecting a broader pattern of suppression of peaceful assembly. The ongoing scrutiny of security forces underscores urgent calls for justice and human rights protection in Zambia.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
