Human Rights Experts Urge Immediate Action Against Violence in Mozambique Post-Elections
Human rights experts from the UN are calling for Mozambican authorities to immediately address ongoing violence and repression following the disputed presidential elections on October 9, 2022. Over 30 individuals have died, and more than 200 are injured due to violent clashes between security forces and protestors amid serious allegations of electoral fraud. The experts demand impartial investigations and emphasize the importance of protecting citizens’ rights during peaceful protests.
On November 7, 2022, UN independent human rights experts urged the Mozambican government to put an end to ongoing violence and repression following the contentious general elections held on October 9, which resulted in the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate Daniel Chapo declared the winner amidst serious allegations of electoral fraud. In the aftermath of the disputed elections, protests erupted across the country, leading to violent confrontations with security forces that resulted in at least 30 fatalities and over 200 injuries, highlighting a troubling pattern of excessive force against demonstrators. In response to the protests, the authorities deployed military forces, while at least 300 protestors were arrested. The independent experts stated that reports of unlawful killings and violence against unarmed civilians, including children, are profoundly disturbing. They called for a thorough and impartial investigation into these incidents to uphold the right to life. Furthermore, they stressed that all Mozambicans must be able to engage freely in political processes without fear of retaliation. The protests have brought to light significant concerns regarding the electoral integrity, with citizens expressing skepticism over the fairness of the election process. The experts emphasized the need for the authorities to take action against the violence and ensure that all citizens, particularly marginalized groups such as women and girls, can participate in political expression safely. The current restrictions on media freedoms, targeting journalists, and blocking of internet services further complicate the landscape of dissent and accountability in Mozambique. The human rights experts articulated the essential duty of law enforcement to respect the rights of citizens engaging in peaceful assembly, maintaining neutrality during protests, and protecting individuals’ liberties. They called upon the Mozambican authorities to guarantee access to information and condemned the widespread internet service disruptions. In conclusion, the UN experts warned that ongoing violence linked to electoral disputes might pose enduring threats to Mozambique’s democratic integrity. They are committed to continuing their dialogue with the government and monitoring the situation as it develops, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding human rights. Overall, the complexities surrounding the aftermath of the October elections present significant challenges for the country’s governance and democratic processes, necessitating urgent and effective interventions from state authorities.
The political landscape in Mozambique has been heavily affected by decades of ruling party dominance, particularly by Frelimo, which has held power since the country’s independence in 1975. The general elections of October 9, 2022, ignited widespread protests marked by claims of electoral fraud and misconduct, leading to significant unrest throughout the country. The subsequent violence against demonstrators has raised alarm among human rights organizations and international observers, sparking debates about the future of democracy and governance in Mozambique.
The alarming situation in Mozambique following the October 2022 elections underscores the need for immediate action by the government to address the violence, uphold human rights, and restore public trust in the electoral process. With significant casualties and ongoing repression of dissent, the international community is closely monitoring developments. Maintaining the integrity of democratic institutions and ensuring the safety of citizens remains paramount for the country’s stability and progress.
Original Source: news.un.org
