Mozambique’s President Decries Protests as ‘Dictatorship’

Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo has criticized his rival Venâncio Mondlane for instigating protests against the election results, calling it a form of dictatorship. Chapo condemned the violent actions associated with these demonstrations, alleging they threaten national stability and freedom. The protests have resulted in over 350 deaths and extensive damage to infrastructure, illustrating the country’s ongoing civil unrest and political divide.

On Thursday, Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo condemned his political rival Venâncio Mondlane for inciting protests against the recent presidential election results. Chapo characterized these calls for public demonstrations, including demands for citizens to wear black clothing and bang pots, as actions that represent a form of “dictatorship” which limits individual freedoms. He emphasized that a true democracy does not occur under coercion, where citizens are mandated to act against their will.

Chapo, who was the Frelimo party’s candidate during the elections, has repeatedly denounced the protests initiated by Mondlane since October. These demonstrations, driven by claims of significant electoral fraud, have included various forms of public dissent such as honking horns and using musical instruments to express dissatisfaction with the electoral process. Chapo described these protests as “violent, illegal, and criminal” activities that are detrimental to national unity.

During a recent press conference in Cabo Delgado, Chapo stated that such disruptions are creating havoc in cities across Mozambique, illustrating the chaos seen in Xai-Xai and Maputo. The President argued that these protests force citizens to follow imposed price figures, undermining free market practices. He reiterated that without unity and cooperation, the country cannot progress and stressed that destruction only harms the very communities that citizens claim to represent.

Ongoing protests have resulted in substantial civil unrest since the elections, with at least 353 fatalities reported, including around two dozen minors. Injuries during confrontations have surpassed 3,500, according to the non-governmental organization Plataforma Eleitoral Decide. The government, acknowledging a lesser toll, reported 80 deaths and significant destruction to facilities, including schools and health centers.

In summary, President Daniel Chapo has decried the ongoing protests led by Venâncio Mondlane, labeling them as undemocratic actions that infringe on individual freedoms. He emphasized the need for unity to foster national development and condemned the violence and destruction that have accompanied the protests, which have led to a tragic loss of life and significant property damage. The continuing unrest in Mozambique underscores the deep political divisions within the country and the pressing need for resolution.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com