Mozambican police clashed with protesters led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, resulting in 14 injuries, including children. Mondlane, claiming election fraud, faced police using live ammunition and tear gas during his march. This incident adds to a backdrop of considerable election-related violence, prompting the ruling party to seek political stabilization.
In Maputo, Mozambique, police clashed with protesters during a march led by opposition figure Venancio Mondlane, resulting in at least 14 injuries, including two children, as reported by the civil society organization Plataforma Decide. Mondlane, who claimed he was robbed of victory in the October 2023 presidential election in which he finished second, was promoting his new political party when violence erupted as security forces opened fire on the crowd.
The incident was captured on live-stream, showing panic as demonstrators fled amidst the gunfire and use of tear gas. Eyewitness accounts described the police response as an ambush, and tragically, reports indicate that a child later succumbed to gunshot wounds in a hospital.
This violent escalation is set against a backdrop of ongoing unrest in Mozambique following the elections, where international observers have pointed out numerous irregularities. Since October, election-related violence has resulted in over 320 fatalities.
In response to the unrest, the ruling Frelimo party has announced a political agreement with Podemos, the party that previously supported Mondlane, as part of efforts to restore stability in the country.
The recent clash between Mozambique police and protesters highlights the escalating tensions following the controversial October 2023 elections, marked by allegations of fraud. As the unrest continues, with significant loss of life reported, efforts are underway by the ruling party to forge alliances aimed at stabilizing the situation.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
