Mozambicans are gearing up for a significant presidential election on Wednesday, which will determine the successor to President Filipe Nyusi after his two terms in office. With close to 17 million registered voters in a nation of 31 million, the stakes are high as the country grapples with pressing issues such as a jihadist insurgency and severe food shortages.

The ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo) has nominated David Chapo, a 47-year-old former governor of Inhambane, as its presidential candidate. Chapo is expected to face significant competition from:

1. Venacio Mondlane (50 years old) – An independent candidate and banker, running under the slogan “Save Mozambique, this country’s ours.”
2. Lutero Simango – Represents the Democratic Movement of Mozambique, appealing to youth with policies focused on inequality and job creation.
3. Ossufo Momade – The candidate from the Mozambique National Resistance (Renamo), who took over after the death of former leader Afonso Dhlakama.

Voting will occur on a single day, with counting starting immediately. Partial results will be released as they come in, while official results will be announced by the National Election Commission after 15 days. The Constitutional Council will validate these results, allowing parties to file objections if necessary.