Human Rights Watch reports that at least 10 children have been killed and many others injured by Mozambican security forces amid protests following a disputed presidential election. Hundreds of minors have been detained, and the protests have escalated following the assassination of opposition leaders. The unrest reflects deep-seated grievances against the ruling Frelimo party’s decades-long governance, with calls for accountability growing louder.
According to a report by Human Rights Watch, at least 10 children have been killed, and dozens more injured by security forces in Mozambique during a wave of protests following a disputed presidential election. The unrest erupted after the October 9 election where the ruling party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, won amid allegations of electoral fraud. Since the announcement of the results, security forces have detained hundreds of minors, violating international law. The situation has escalated, leading to significant unrest in the capital, Maputo, with widespread public demonstrations occurring after the assassination of opposition figures.
The protests against the ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo) party have posed one of the most significant challenges to its long-standing grip on power since independence in 1975. Social media outlets have been instrumental in mobilizing communities, with independent presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane calling for continued demonstrations. Following threats to his safety after the assassinations, Mondlane has fled the country.
International rights organizations claim that over 30 individuals have been killed due to security forces using live ammunition against protesters, while local groups report a casualty count closer to 50. In response to the protests, which have led to the closure of schools and businesses, the Mozambican army has been deployed to restore order. Reports indicate that more than 2,700 detainees, largely minors, have been released.
Mozambique’s government has yet to provide an accurate account of the casualties or detentions related to the ongoing unrest. The political climate remains charged as the public continues to demand accountability and reforms, reflecting deeper underlying discontent with the ruling party’s governance.
The political unrest in Mozambique arose following the presidential election held on October 9, where the ruling party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, was declared the winner, despite widespread accusations of electoral fraud from opposition parties and monitoring bodies. The Front for the Liberation of Mozambique, often referred to as Frelimo, has faced unrest from citizens disillusioned by government practices perceived as undemocratic and corrupt. Previous protests have struck the nation but the scale and intensity of the current demonstrations are unprecedented, highlighting longstanding grievances among the population regarding governance and civil rights violations. The recent assassination of opposition leaders exacerbated tensions and incited a broader public response against the ruling administration.
In summary, the ongoing protests in Mozambique have led to a significant loss of life and injuries, particularly among children, as the government attempts to suppress dissent following a controversial election. The deployment of security forces and rising tensions following the assassination of political figures have contributed to the current crisis, with growing calls from the public for accountability and justice. International observers and human rights organizations continue to monitor the situation as the country grapples with these challenges to its democratic processes.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
