Mozambique Court Affirms Frelimo’s Election Victory Amid Renewed Protests

Mozambique’s highest court has upheld Frelimo’s election win, confirming Daniel Chapo received 65.17% of the vote amid violent opposition protests. Protests resumed following the court’s decision, with opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane calling for a shutdown over allegations of election rigging.

The Constitutional Council of Mozambique has ratified the victory of the ruling party, Frelimo, in the contentious October presidential election, a decision that follows a series of opposition-led protests marked by significant violence, resulting in over 100 fatalities. The court concluded that any identified electoral anomalies did not substantially affect the outcome, confirming that Daniel Chapo secured 65.17% of the votes, while his main rival Venâncio Mondlane received 24.29%, a revision from the prior assertion of 70% for Chapo. Following this ruling, protests erupted anew in Maputo, with Mondlane’s supporters expressing their discontent through demonstrations characterized by the burning of tires and road blockages. Mondlane has alleged electoral fraud by Frelimo and has vocalized intentions to instigate further unrest, declaring a planned shutdown starting Friday.

The recent electoral landscape in Mozambique has been heavily influenced by the ruling Frelimo party’s actions and the responses from opposition groups. The October presidential election was fraught with claims of irregularities and voter intimidation, leading to widespread civil unrest. The significant loss of life during the clashes illustrates the tension between the government and opposition factions, notably exacerbated by the opposition’s claims of election illegitimacy and their calls for protests against the perceived injustices.

In summary, the Constitutional Council’s affirmation of Frelimo’s electoral victory amidst escalating protests highlights a critical moment in Mozambique’s political climate. The opposition continues to mobilize against what they perceive as systemic electoral fraud, indicating a potential for ongoing unrest and confrontation in the country. As the situation develops, the response of the government to the demonstrations will be pivotal in determining Mozambique’s stability moving forward.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com