Mozambique Court Confirms Frelimo’s Election Victory Amid Protests

Mozambique’s Constitutional Council upheld the Frelimo party’s victory in the October presidential election, confirming Daniel Chapo won 65.17% of the vote amid widespread protests. Following the ruling, opposition supporters took to the streets, accusing the government of electoral fraud and rallying against the decision. More than 100 people have died in the protests, leading to calls for a nationwide shutdown.

Mozambique’s Constitutional Council has confirmed the victory of the ruling Frelimo party in the recent presidential election, despite significant public unrest and protests. The court announced that Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo secured 65.17% of the votes, while opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane obtained 24.29%. Although the council acknowledged some irregularities, it asserted that they did not significantly affect the overall outcome, revising earlier results that had indicated a higher percentage for Chapo. Following the announcement, protests erupted anew in Maputo, characterized by road blockages and burning debris, as Mondlane’s supporters voiced their discontent and accusations of electoral fraud against Frelimo. Mondlane had previously warned that chaos would ensue should the court affirm the election results in favor of Chapo, and he declared a planned “shutdown” to commence on Friday.

The recent presidential elections in Mozambique have drawn widespread scrutiny and allegations of impropriety, particularly from the opposition factions. The Frelimo party, which has been in power for 58 years, faced accusations of electoral manipulation from opposition leaders, fostering a climate of tension and discord within the country. Following the election, the Constitutional Council served as the final arbiter of the disputes, ultimately siding with Frelimo and prompting substantial public backlash as citizens expressed their dissatisfaction through organized protests in the capital and beyond.

In summary, the Constitutional Council’s endorsement of the Frelimo party’s electoral victory has exposed deep-seated divisions within Mozambique’s political landscape. The ruling party’s continuation of power amidst allegations of rigging and the resultant unrest highlights the challenges facing the nation. Protests are expected to persist as opposition leaders seek to mobilize public sentiment against the government’s actions, underscoring the potential volatility in Mozambique’s political environment.

Original Source: apnews.com