Venâncio Mondlane Critiques Political Agreement in Mozambique Amid Unrest
Venâncio Mondlane has criticized an upcoming political agreement in Mozambique as lacking public representation, asserting it necessitates protests lasting five years. This agreement is part of a dialogue intended to resolve post-election crises, although critics highlight Mondlane’s exclusion as a significant issue. The country is experiencing unrest due to disputed election results and economic grievances, leading to numerous fatalities and injuries among demonstrators.
In Mozambique, former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has strongly criticized a political agreement set to be signed by the president and various political parties, labeling it as an agreement made “without the people.” He emphasized that the citizens would not be participants in this agreement, referring to it as merely “a kind of paper” rather than a genuine representation of the populace’s interests. Mondlane made these remarks during a large gathering in the Magoanine neighborhood, asserting that this lack of inclusion warrants ongoing protests for the next five years.
The signing ceremony, planned at the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre, represents an effort to address state reforms and is intended to resolve Mozambique’s post-election crisis. Political entities, including the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), will participate, alongside the extra-parliamentary party Nova Democracia. Participating parties in previous discussions have also included those with representation in provincial and municipal assemblies.
Critics, including academics and analysts, have raised concerns about the absence of Mondlane from these discussions, despite the Mozambican head of state’s assurances to broaden dialogue with various societal sectors. Mondlane has positioned himself as the leader of the primary opposition against the election outcomes from the recent elections, in which he was the second most-voted candidate according to the Constitutional Council.
In his address, Mondlane announced a commitment to organizing demonstrations every day from 2025 until 2030, with the goal of compelling the government to heed the people’s needs. “If you do not do what the people want, you will not govern in Mozambique,” he stated, signaling his intent to maintain pressure on the government.
Since the elections held in October, Mozambique has witnessed significant social unrest. Mondlane has voiced opposition to the results, which declared Daniel Chapo as the winner. The protests, while currently less intense, have highlighted rising living costs and various social issues. Reports indicate that at least 353 individuals have lost their lives due to the unrest, with around 3,500 injuries recorded. The government has confirmed a toll of at least 80 fatalities and widespread destruction to commercial establishments, schools, and healthcare facilities as a consequence of the demonstrations.
In summary, Venâncio Mondlane’s critique of the political agreement in Mozambique underscores a significant disconnect between the government and the populace, prompting his call for extensive public demonstrations aimed at advocating for citizens’ needs. The ongoing social unrest reflects deep-rooted issues stemming from contested election results and economic discontent, demonstrating the complexities faced by Mozambique in its quest for political stability and reform.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
