Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced that the SADC regional bloc is prepared to extend assistance to Mozambique amid ongoing post-election violence, which has resulted in over 100 deaths. Calls for dialogue are being made by South African officials and opposition leaders, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and cooperation to address the crisis effectively.
Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who chairs the Southern African Development Community (SADC), remarked that the regional bloc is prepared to support Mozambique, which has been grappling with severe post-election violence resulting in over 100 fatalities, as reported by various human rights groups. Following the controversial elections held on October 9, where the ruling Frelimo party allegedly secured a 65% victory, calls for dialogue have intensified among regional leaders.
South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lomola, highlighted the necessity for urgent dialogue among all political factions to restore peace and promote development in Mozambique. In his social media address, he expressed South Africa’s willingness to assist in facilitating discussions to heal the nation. Meanwhile, Venancio Mondlane, the opposition leader who narrowly lost the election, emphasized solidarity among citizens in light of the current disparities and violence caused by the ruling party.
Khanyo Farise from Amnesty International condemned the heavy-handed police response aimed at quelling protests, stating, “Since the outcome of the elections on Oct. 9, police have responded with excessive use of force against those who decide to express themselves.” Numerous incidents of police brutality have resulted in severe injuries and the loss of life among protesters.
Borges Nhamirre, a researcher with the Institute for Security Studies, pointed out the importance of restoring peace in Mozambique, noting that the unrest has led to closed ports, adversely affecting trade with neighboring countries including Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa. He asserted the urgent need for dialogue as the only viable solution to the crisis. With growing support from the opposition and regional entities, there is cautious optimism for peaceful resolution in Mozambique’s ongoing turmoil.
The situation in Mozambique has escalated following disputed elections held on October 9, during which the ruling Frelimo party declared a significant victory amidst accusations of electoral fraud from opposition groups. The subsequent unrest has led to widespread protests and a brutal crackdown by security forces, prompting international concern and calls for intervention. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed readiness to assist Mozambique, reflecting the importance of stability in the region. Calls for dialogue are being echoed by regional leaders as well as international organizations in response to the violence and its humanitarian impacts.
In summary, Mozambique faces pressing challenges in the aftermath of contested elections marked by violence and loss of life. The combined calls for peace and constructive dialogue from both regional leaders and the opposition highlight a critical juncture in the country’s political landscape. Continued international attention and support from organizations such as SADC and Amnesty International may facilitate necessary dialogue to restore order and promote healing in Mozambique.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
