Former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has criticized an upcoming political agreement in Mozambique as lacking genuine public representation, promising daily protests for five years. Events surrounding the agreement, aimed at addressing a post-election crisis, are overshadowed by significant social unrest and resistance to recent election results. Reports indicate high casualties and extensive property damage due to protests demanding accountability and effective governance.
In Mozambique, former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has expressed vehement criticism of a political agreement set to be signed by the president and several political parties regarding state reforms. Mondlane condemned the agreement as being “without the people,” asserting that protests will occur daily for five years to advocate for genuine public representation amid the ongoing discussions.
Today’s signing ceremony at the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre in Maputo involves the president and several key political parties, including the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique, the Mozambican National Resistance, and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique. The agreement aims to foster political dialogue and address the country’s post-election crisis, also including participation from the extra-parliamentary party Nova Democracia.
Critics, including academics and analysts, highlight the absence of Venâncio Mondlane—a key political figure who achieved second place in the recent elections—as a significant oversight. Mondlane contends that his exclusion undermines the legitimacy of the political dialogue, as the results from the October elections remain contested, particularly regarding the victory claimed by Daniel Chapo.
In his address, Mondlane declared his intentions for sustained protests, committing to “1,825 days of demonstrations” from 2025 to 2030, emphasizing that the populace’s needs must be addressed by the government. Social unrest has erupted since October, intensifying around the disputed election results and rising living costs, resulting in significant casualties and injuries.
Reports indicate that at least 353 individuals have perished, including minors, with approximately 3,500 people injured since the onset of protests following the election results. The government confirmed a range of damages, including at least 80 reported fatalities and the destruction of numerous businesses, schools, and health facilities as a consequence of the civil unrest caused by these protests.
Venâncio Mondlane’s criticism of the political agreement highlights the tension in Mozambique surrounding representation and social unrest. His commitment to protesting for five consecutive years underscores the seriousness of public discontent in response to both the election results and ongoing socio-economic challenges. As unrest continues, it remains imperative for the government to engage meaningfully with all stakeholders, including dissenting voices, in order to restore stability and address pressing societal issues.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
