Mozambique’s highest court confirmed Frelimo’s victory in the October elections on Monday. However, opposition groups claim the vote was rigged and have since taken to the streets in protest.
The Constitutional Council made the final decision on the election results. As a result, further protests are expected. Frelimo has ruled Mozambique since 1975, and the country has nearly 35 million people.
Election Criticized by Observers
Western observers, including those from the U.S., have criticized the election as unfair. In fact, the post-election protests are now the largest in the country’s history.
The U.S. State Department expressed concern over the Constitutional Council’s decision. It also called for “serious electoral and institutional reforms.” According to reports, there were irregularities in the vote counting and a lack of transparency during the election period.
Clashes and Casualties
At least 130 people have died in clashes with police, according to the group Plataforma Decide.
While the area around the conference hall in Maputo was quiet due to a strong police presence, protests broke out in other regions. Specifically, the northern city of Nacala-Porto and other parts of the capital saw unrest. Local broadcaster TV Sucesso Moz captured footage of the protests.
Election Results Discrepancies
The Constitutional Council stated that Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, won about 65% of the vote. This figure was lower than the 70% reported by the electoral commission. Additionally, the council awarded Frelimo fewer seats in parliament, though it did not explain these changes.
Opponents have long accused Frelimo of rigging elections, a claim the party has repeatedly denied. Furthermore, the electoral commission has not commented on the fraud allegations related to this election.
Opposition Rejects Results
Judite Simao, a representative for opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, rejected the results. She said, “We never thought that the electoral truth would be trampled. The will of the people was obliterated.”
Economic Impact
The unrest has already disrupted foreign companies, including the Australian mining firm South32. Moreover, the main border crossing with South Africa has temporarily closed.
An IMF official told that Mozambique’s economic growth for 2024 will likely fall below the 4.3% forecast. This is mainly due to the ongoing unrest and the effects of Cyclone Chido earlier this month.
