Amnesty International Condemns Police Violence Against Opposition Rally in Mozambique
Amnesty International has condemned the Mozambican police for using live ammunition against peaceful protestors supporting opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane during a rally in Nampula. The incident is part of a broader context of unrest following disputed national election results, with calls for accountability and respect for civil rights gaining momentum.
Amnesty International has condemned the actions of Mozambican police who opened fire on supporters of opposition presidential contender, Venâncio Mondlane, during a political rally in Nampula following disputed national elections. Khanyo Farise, the Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa at Amnesty International, highlighted the necessity for police to respect individuals’ rights to peaceful assembly, regardless of electoral outcomes. The incident occurred on October 16, when police shot at Mondlane’s supporters, injuring at least one individual and leading to the arbitrary detention of several opposition members, including David Calisto Bandeira, a notable musician linked with the PODEMOS party. The police charged Bandeira with inciting violence due to his songs supporting the opposition. These events unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing protests from Mondlane’s supporters, sparked by early election results showing the ruling party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, leading in critical regions. Calls for widespread demonstrations, including a nationwide strike set for October 21, further highlight the rising tensions amidst allegations of electoral irregularities in the nation’s electoral processes.
Following the national elections in Mozambique, there has been significant unrest, particularly in Nampula city, which is traditionally an opposition stronghold. As reports emerged of disputed electoral results favoring the ruling Frelimo party, tensions escalated. The actions of the police during public gatherings, particularly the shooting of opposition supporters, have prompted local and international human rights organizations to call for accountability and respect for civil rights. These events occur in a context where political gatherings have become increasingly volatile, necessitating a critical examination of police conduct and the protection of citizens’ rights to assemble peacefully.
The recent clashes between police and opposition supporters in Mozambique underscore the urgent need for law enforcement to uphold the right to peaceful assembly, especially during politically charged periods. The violations of human rights reported—such as the use of live ammunition and the arbitrary detention of peaceful demonstrators—are concerning and warrant immediate action from authorities to protect citizens’ freedoms. Upholding these principles is paramount for ensuring a democratic and stable society amid ongoing electoral disputes.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
