Mozambique Deaths Reach 125 Amid Protests Over Election Results

MAPUTO, Mozambique – Violence has erupted across Mozambique following the confirmation of Daniel Chapo’s victory in the country’s October 9th presidential election. The death toll has tragically climbed to 125 in just three days, according to the non-governmental organization Plataforma Decide, highlighting the intense unrest gripping the nation.

Despite international observers expressing concerns about irregularities during the election, Mozambique’s highest court upheld Chapo’s victory on Monday. The candidate from the Frelimo party, which has held power since 1975, secured 65.17% of the vote. This announcement ignited protests from opposition groups, which frequently turned into violent clashes with police.

Escalating Violence and Arrests

The government initially reported 21 deaths in the first 24 hours of rioting across major cities. However, the situation rapidly deteriorated, with the national police chief subsequently revealing a mass jailbreak near Maputo, resulting in at least 33 inmate deaths during clashes with prison staff.

As the unrest persists, the total death toll since violence erupted in October has reached 252, according to Plataforma Decide. A staggering 4,000 people have been arrested since October related to the demonstrations, including 137 arrests in the past three days.

Allegations of Rigging and State of Emergency

Venancio Mondlane, Chapo’s main challenger and an exiled opposition leader, has vehemently accused the government of rigging the election. He further alleges that security forces are deliberately inciting the unrest and looting to justify a state of emergency and suppress the protests.

Lingering Impact on Maputo

While some barricades around the capital Maputo have been dismantled, many remain in place, severely restricting traffic. Public transportation has also been suspended, impacting daily life for residents.