UN experts call for an immediate end to violence in Mozambique following disputed elections, where police repression has led to at least 30 deaths and 300 arrests. The government is urged to investigate unlawful killings, uphold rights to peaceful assembly, and guarantee media freedoms amid escalating protests and allegations of electoral fraud.
UN independent human rights experts have urgently requested the Mozambican government to halt ongoing violence and repression against demonstrators in the aftermath of contentious general elections held last month. Following the disputed elections on October 9, which delivered a victory to the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, the country has witnessed weeks of violent protests and allegations of electoral fraud. Reports indicate that security forces have employed brutal tactics against peaceful protesters, resulting in a tragic death toll of at least 30 individuals, including a child, and the injury of over 200 others. Furthermore, approximately 300 protesters have been arrested in connection with these demonstrations. In an alarming escalation, the Mozambican government deployed military forces last week to suppress public dissent, while protest leaders have announced additional phases of demonstrations across various provincial capitals and border points. Meanwhile, there have been reports of retaliatory violence from protesters targeting suspected police officers, leading to at least one reported death. The UN experts expressed grave concern regarding these developments, stating, “The violations of the right to life, including of a child, deliberate killings of unarmed protesters and the excessive use of force by the police deployed to disperse peaceful protests across Mozambique are very disturbing.” Citing the necessity for accountability, the experts called upon the Mozambican authorities to conduct prompt and impartial investigations into all unlawful killings. The protests emerged amid widespread public dissatisfaction regarding electoral integrity, with numerous accusations of irregularities reported. Addressing the issues of freedom of expression, the experts advocated for an environment that allows all citizens, including marginalized groups, to participate in political processes without fear. Notably, there have been severe constraints on media freedoms, including intimidation towards journalists and internet access disruptions. The experts emphasized the duty of law enforcement to respect and protect individuals exercising their rights to peaceful assembly, urging them to remain unbiased during protests. They reiterated the importance of safeguarding individuals’ life, liberty, and security. Additionally, they called for improved access to information and condemned the extensive censorship of internet services. They expressed a commitment to fostering dialogue with Mozambican authorities while expressing concern that the ongoing violence related to electoral disputes could have long-lasting ramifications for the nation’s democratic framework.
The context of this situation stems from the October 9 general elections in Mozambique, which resulted in significant public unrest and accusations of electoral fraud. For decades, the Frelimo party has maintained a strong grip on power since the country’s independence in 1975. The aftermath of these elections has seen a spike in violence as citizens have taken to the streets to express their discontent, leading to heavy-handed responses from security forces and raising concerns regarding civil liberties and human rights in the nation. This unrest has highlighted broader issues of governance, political representation, and the crucial need for accountability in electoral processes within Mozambique.
In summary, the situation in Mozambique demands urgent action from the authorities to protect human rights and prevent further violence in the wake of disputed elections. Independent experts have highlighted the need for accountability and the safeguarding of civil liberties, underscoring the critical importance of allowing peaceful protests and ensuring media freedoms. The ongoing dialogue between UN experts and the Mozambican government will be essential in addressing these pressing issues and fostering a more democratic environment for all citizens.
Original Source: news.un.org
