Mozambican police clashed with protesters, injuring dozens amid ongoing political unrest following a disputed election. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane’s convoy was fired upon, leading to allegations of violence against civilians. The situation highlights continued discontent as political discussions exclude key opposition figures, despite calls for restraint from the international community.
At least a dozen individuals sustained injuries when Mozambique police aggressively dispersed a protest led by opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who recently placed second in a controversial presidential election. Eyewitnesses reported that police used live ammunition against Mondlane’s convoy and the accompanying anti-government demonstrators in Maputo, raising concerns about the violent approach to civil dissent.
The protests coincided with President Daniel Chapo’s plans to sign an agreement aimed at resolving the ongoing unrest stemming from the disputed election. However, Mondlane, who has been vocal in calling for protests, was notably absent from the negotiations leading to the deal-signing event. Reports indicate that his convoy was attacked by a police unit that subsequently opened fire and deployed tear gas.
According to a statement from Mondlane’s office, a police contingent confronted his convoy and unleashed a barrage of gunfire, leading to multiple injuries. Interior Minister Paulo Chachine remarked that the police were tasked with maintaining order to prevent chaos during the deal ceremony, and asserted that there was no intent to harm Mondlane. Civil society group Plataforma Decide reported sixteen injuries, although various parties contest the casualty figures.
Allegations surfaced that two children were fatally shot during the incident, causing Mondlane’s team to express deep concern for his safety and whereabouts. Video footage circulating on social media depicted the immediate aftermath of the gunfire, with protesters fleeing the scene as shots rang out from a suspected armored vehicle.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with one protester likening it to an “ambush scenario,” while emphasizing the need for peaceful protest. The Portuguese government condemned the attack on Mondlane’s convoy, urging restraint and respect for human rights.
Since his inauguration, President Chapo has promised inclusive dialogue to address the political crisis, although criticisms have arisen regarding his exclusion of Mondlane from these discussions. Mondlane himself denounced the proposed agreement as being disconnected from the populace’s will and asserted that demonstrations would endure until the government fulfills the people’s demands. Civil society groups have reported a troubling death toll of approximately 400 linked to protest-related violence since October.
In summary, the violent dispersal of protests in Mozambique marked a significant escalation in tensions surrounding the recent presidential election. The actions of the police raise serious concerns about the use of force against civilians, particularly in the context of political dissent. As Venâncio Mondlane vows to continue protests despite governmental exclusion from negotiations, the political landscape remains uncertain, with human rights implications at the forefront of the dialogue.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
