Mozambican police clashed with protesters led by Venancio Mondlane in Maputo, using live ammunition and tear gas, resulting in 14 injuries. The protest aimed to highlight perceived electoral fraud from the recent presidential election. Eyewitnesses reported severe violence, including the potential death of a child from gunfire. Following the unrest, Frelimo announced a political agreement with Podemos to stabilize the nation.
Mozambican police engaged in violent clashes with protesters in Maputo, resulting in at least 14 injuries, including two children. This confrontation occurred during a march led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who alleges electoral fraud after finishing second in the October 2023 presidential election. The police used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse the crowd, prompting chaos and panic among the attendees.
The incident was captured in a live-streamed video, shedding light on the disorder as demonstrators fled from the scene. Eyewitness accounts describe the police response as an ambush, with troubling reports indicating that a child reportedly died from gunshot wounds sustained during the protests.
This outbreak of violence is set against a backdrop of heightened unrest following the October elections, with international observers highlighting significant irregularities in the electoral process. Overall, election-related violence has resulted in over 320 fatalities since October. In a bid to restore stability, Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo party has announced a political agreement with Podemos, the party previously aligned with Mondlane.
In summary, the recent clashes between Mozambican police and protesters in Maputo underscore severe tensions following the October elections, which many believe were marred by fraud. With the use of live ammunition against civilians resulting in injuries and fatalities, the situation poses significant challenges for political stability in Mozambique. The ruling Frelimo party’s alliance with Podemos aims to address these issues, but comprehensive reforms may still be necessary to ensure peace and legitimacy in governance.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
