Protesters blocked the N4 highway near Ressano Garcia, Mozambique, disrupting transport links to South Africa following disputed election results that favored the ruling party. Tensions escalated as public transport services were halted, and demonstrators set fires on the road, prompting calls for calm from authorities.
Protesters in Ressano Garcia, a town bordering Mozambique and South Africa, orchestrated a blockade of the N4 highway on Monday by seizing control of several trucks. This disruption halted public bus services, compelling passengers to abandon their vehicles and continue on foot. Additionally, demonstrators set tires ablaze near a toll plaza outside the capital, Maputo, inflicting some damage to the area. The operator, Trans African Concessions, urged individuals to refrain from traveling across the border until stability is restored.
The unrest in Mozambique escalated following the elections held on October 9, during which the ruling party maintained its long-standing grip on power. Official results indicated that the presidential candidate from the ruling party, Daniel Chapo, garnered 71% of the votes. However, opposition figure Venâncio Mondlane challenged the legitimacy of the election outcome, asserting it was fraudulent and calling for public demonstrations to defend the will of the electorate. In response, the Constitutional Council ordered verification of the electoral process by requesting tally sheets from seven of the 11 voting constituencies.
The ongoing protests in Mozambique reflect widespread discontent with the electoral results and the actions of the ruling party. The blockade of the N4 highway, a crucial transport link between Mozambique and South Africa, highlights the tension in the region. It is imperative for electoral authorities to address the grievances raised by opposition candidates to restore calm and ensure the legitimacy of the democratic process.
Original Source: www.bnnbloomberg.ca
