South Africa and SADC are prepared to assist Mozambique amid its political crisis following disputed election results. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has returned to the country, claiming to be the legitimate president, while ongoing protests have resulted in significant violence. Regional leaders, including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, have called for an end to hostilities, and South African authorities are considering intervention.
On Thursday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that both South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are ready to assist Mozambique with the ongoing political turmoil. “We are watching very closely what is happening in Mozambique, and obviously Mozambique is such a close neighbor to us,” he stated during a press briefing in Cape Town. Ramaphosa emphasized that SADC members are prepared to extend support to Mozambique in light of its current challenges.
The political crisis in Mozambique intensified after the announcement of the presidential election results, which saw Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party declared the victor with 71% of the votes. His main opponent, Venancio Mondlane, who received 20%, has been in self-imposed exile but returned to Mozambique, asserting that he is the “president elected by the people.” Mondlane’s return occurred amid increasing tensions and protests disputing the election outcome.
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, currently the chairperson of SADC, has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Mozambique, where protests have claimed nearly 300 lives since October 21. Ramaphosa expressed hopes for a smooth inauguration for President-elect Daniel Chapo but did not confirm his attendance. In response to the situation, Ramaphosa recently sent Sydney Mufamadi as a special envoy to address the violence that poses threats to regional stability. Organizations in Mozambique have implored Ramaphosa for intervention, yet the South African presidency has remained silent regarding their request.
The ongoing political crisis in Mozambique arises from the controversial presidential election held on October 9, which resulted in significant backlash from opposition parties. The newly elected president, Daniel Chapo of the Frelimo party, faced allegations of electoral fraud and disenfranchisement from the opposition. As protests erupted, it became evident that the situation could impact regional stability, prompting South Africa and SADC to consider assisting Mozambique.
In summary, South Africa, alongside SADC, is poised to provide support to Mozambique amid its ongoing political crisis instigated by disputed election results. The return of opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has further escalated tensions in the region, prompting calls for an end to hostilities and the need for diplomatic intervention. The leadership of SADC, especially from South Africa, remains crucial in navigating these challenges to restore peace and stability in Mozambique.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
