Amnesty International reported a brutal crackdown by Mozambique’s security forces on post-election protests, leading to over 300 deaths and more than 3,000 injuries. The protests arose following the controversial victory of Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party and intensified after the assassination of a political figure. Amnesty calls for investigations into these rights violations and accountability for law enforcement officials involved.
Mozambique’s security forces have conducted a severe crackdown on post-election protests following last year’s vote, according to Amnesty International. Local activists allege that this crackdown resulted in over 300 deaths and more than 3,000 injuries during the unrest. In response, Amnesty has called for the investigation of these incidents and for justice to be served against the law enforcement officials involved.
The protests erupted after the October 9 presidential and parliamentary elections, where Daniel Chapo from the ruling Frelimo party emerged victorious amidst claims of election tampering. Demonstrations supported independent candidate Venancio Mondlane, backed by the opposition Podemos party, and gained momentum following the assassination of Mondlane’s lawyer and a Podemos official on October 18.
Mondlane condemned the killings as politically motivated and declared a 25-day protest period, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Although he briefly left Mozambique for safety, he returned in January. Amnesty’s report documents the violent response of the police and military to largely peaceful gatherings, employing live ammunition and tear gas from October 21 to January 25.
Amnesty International’s findings illustrate a grave situation in Mozambique, characterized by excessive use of force by security forces against peaceful protestors following the controversial election. With numerous fatalities and injuries, as well as ongoing political oppression, the call for accountability remains crucial for the Mozambican government. The essence of democracy and human rights continues to be challenged amid a history of electoral manipulation by the ruling party.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
