In Mozambique, protests erupted following the announcement of the election results, leading to a tragic increase in the death toll. The ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, was declared the winner with 70.7% of the vote, but allegations of electoral fraud have sparked widespread unrest across the nation..
The protests began on October 25, when Silvio Jeremias, a petrol station worker, was shot dead by police during a demonstration in Maputo. His death has become a symbol of the growing discontent among the populace, particularly the youth, who are increasingly frustrated with Frelimo’s long-standing rule since Mozambique’s independence in 1975.
Human Rights Watch reported that at least 11 individuals have lost their lives due to police violence, with over 50 sustaining serious injuries from gunfire. The police have defended their actions, claiming they only fired warning shots to disperse crowds. However, eyewitness accounts suggest otherwise, with reports of live ammunition being used against protesters.
Before the elections, civil society groups raised alarms about the integrity of the electoral process, alleging that nearly 900,000 fake voters had been registered. The Catholic bishops of Mozambique and EU election observers echoed these concerns, citing instances of ballot stuffing and irregularities during the counting process.
The violence surrounding the election is not an isolated incident. Just days before the vote, two opposition figures were murdered, raising fears of a targeted campaign against dissenters. The National Criminal Investigation Service is currently investigating these killings, but no suspects have been identified..