Mozambican police utilized tear gas against supporters of Venâncio Mondlane near the attorney general’s office amid his hearing regarding post-election protests. Mondlane faces multiple legal cases and has criticized the PGR for bias. The Public Prosecutor seeks significant financial compensation from him and addresses a decree he issued as contrary to constitutional norms.
On Tuesday, Mozambican police employed tear gas near the attorney general’s office in Maputo to disperse supporters of Venâncio Mondlane. This incident occurred as Mondlane was attending a hearing related to post-election demonstrations. A heavy police presence restricted both vehicle and pedestrian access along Avenida Vladimir Lenine, where supporters were vocally showcasing their support for Mondlane.
By approximately 12:20 p.m. local time, police had deployed riot squads to clear the area surrounding the PGR, prompting the use of tear gas against the gathered crowd. Mondlane arrived at the attorney general’s office around 9 a.m., amidst chants of support, and expressed his calm disposition, criticizing the office as “biased and partisan” before entering for his hearing.
Prior to the hearing, by 7 a.m., the police’s Rapid Intervention Unit was stationed at key access points. They urged supporters to vacate the premises, which is located across from the Supreme Court. Mondlane is facing scrutiny from eight cases linked to social unrest following the elections.
Addressing reporters, Mondlane expressed low expectations regarding the hearing, recognizing he is under scrutiny in multiple cases. He emphasized his readiness to confront the charges, asserting they are meant to “intimidate, terrorise and frighten” him. Highlighting his grievances, Mondlane discussed previously filing complaints concerning violence against members of his party, noting the lack of progress made by the PGR in those matters.
Scheduled for Monday but postponed at Mondlane’s request, the hearing marks a significant point in his ongoing legal challenges. The Public Prosecutor’s Office recently sought €1.5 million in damages for protest-related unrest, which is part of a broader series of claims against him. Furthermore, legal actions arose from Mondlane’s controversial self-proclaimed “presidential decree,” which the PGR claims contravenes constitutional principles.
In summary, the police’s use of tear gas against supporters of Venâncio Mondlane signifies ongoing tensions in Mozambique as the former presidential candidate navigates multiple legal challenges linked to post-election unrest. Mondlane’s allegations of institutional bias and violence against his supporters highlight significant political and legal strife in the region, while the financial claims from the Public Prosecutor’s Office reflect heightened scrutiny of his actions following the elections. The situation remains tense as political and legal ramifications continue to unfold.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
