In Maputo, two associates of Mozambican opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane were killed in a targeted shooting following allegations of electoral fraud against the ruling Frelimo party after the October 9 elections. The attack drew widespread condemnation and raised concerns over political violence in the country, as investigations are underway.
In Mozambique’s capital city, Maputo, two associates of prominent opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane were tragically murdered on Saturday amidst ongoing election protests. The incident follows accusations of electoral fraud directed towards the ruling Frelimo party, which has governed the nation since its independence in 1975. According to eyewitness reports, lawyer Elvino Dias and opposition candidate Paulo Guambe were attacked while inside their vehicle in downtown Maputo. They were reportedly surrounded by other vehicles, from which two assailants unleashed approximately 20 gunfire shots. Guambe was representing the Podemos party, which endorsed Mondlane in the recent October 9 elections. Despite confirmation of the fatalities by Podemos leader Albino Forquilha to the AFP news agency, police have yet to officially identify the deceased. It has been reported that a female passenger was also present in the vehicle and has since been hospitalized. Police spokesperson Leonel Muchina revealed that the victims had been at a local bar prior to the attack, suggesting they may have been targeted due to interactions with other bar patrons. In response to this grave situation, Mondlane, in solidarity with approximately 100 supporters, held a vigil in Maputo on the evening of the shooting. The results of the general elections in Mozambique are anticipated to be announced on October 24. The Frelimo party has claimed victory shortly after polling, although opposition leader Mondlane has asserted that the results are marred by fraud, urging Mozambicans to protest on Monday. Last year, Dias had previously criticized the government for electoral fraud that benefitted Frelimo in municipal elections, and he had allegedly voiced concerns regarding a potential assassination plot against him. Reactions to the murders have been swift. The civil society organization Mais Integridade condemned the attacks as “repugnant,” labeling them an “act of intimidation” that threatens the democratic process. The Frelimo party has passionately rejected this “macabre act,” demanding thorough investigations into the incident. Subsequently, Podemos characterized the shootings as indicative of the pervasive injustice in the nation. Meanwhile, the European Union condemned the killings and called for the culprits to be brought to justice, asserting that “In a democracy, there is no place for politically motivated killings.” Alongside these sentiments, Portugal’s parliament has likewise voiced strong condemnation for the violence and has urged Mozambican authorities to maintain social peace and democratic integrity.
The killings of prominent opposition figures in Mozambique come in the context of escalating tensions following the recent general election on October 9, where allegations of electoral fraud have been levied against the ruling Frelimo party. Having held power since Mozambique’s independence in 1975, the Frelimo party’s governance has faced increasing challenges, particularly from opposition parties such as Podemos, led by Venancio Mondlane. This unrest has manifested itself amidst fears for political safety and calls for civil discourse, emphasizing the region’s fragile political climate.
The tragic murders of opposition figures in Mozambique signify a critical escalation in the nation’s already volatile political landscape, overshadowed by allegations of electoral malpractice and rising fears of political violence. Responses from various political entities and international organizations underscore the urgent need for investigations and the safeguarding of democratic principles within Mozambique as it faces these grave challenges.
Original Source: www.dw.com
