Mozambique’s Justice Minister Condemns Use of Live Ammunition Against Protesters
Mozambican Minister of Justice Mateus Saize criticized the police for using live ammunition against protesters, stating it is inappropriate. His comments arose after over 300 fatalities during recent demonstrations sparked by electoral fraud claims. The protests initially focused on election issues but have shifted to concerns over the cost of living. The minister advised against the use of live rounds, emphasizing non-lethal alternatives.
The Mozambican Minister of Justice, Mateus Saize, expressed grave concerns regarding the police’s use of live ammunition against protesters, stating it is “not normal.” His comments come after over 300 fatalities were reported during protests initiated by former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who condemned fraudulent electoral outcomes from the October 9 elections.
Initially, the demonstrations were peaceful; however, they escalated into violence and looting. Presently, the focus of these protests has shifted from electoral grievances to rising living costs in various regions of the country. The “Decide” Electoral Platform reported an alarming figure: 303 individuals have been killed and 619 injured by police gunfire since the protests began.
In conclusion, Mateus Saize’s statements reflect serious concerns regarding the police’s excessive use of force during protests in Mozambique. The loss of life during the protests is a stark reminder of the tensions surrounding recent electoral outcomes and economic hardships faced by citizens. There is an urgent need for the government to adhere to protocols that prioritize non-lethal crowd control measures, such as rubber bullets and tear gas, rather than resorting to deadly force.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
