Mozambique: Daniel Chapo calls for dialogue after post-election protests

In Mozambique, the victory of Frelimo candidate Daniel Chapo in the October 9, 2024 presidential election has sparked a wave of protests. Opposition supporters, including those of Venancio Mondlane, reject the results as fraudulent. They denounce irregularities in the electoral process, an accusation supported by the European Union and other observers who have reported questionable practices, including cases of voter intimidation and potential vote manipulation.

A tense context: assassinations and police repression

Two of Mondlane's close associates, Elvino Dias (his lawyer) and Paulo Guamba (a member of his party, Podemos), were killed shortly after the elections in suspicious circumstances. Opponents see these assassinations as an act of political intimidation, denouncing a violent repression aimed at deterring dissenting voices. These killings, combined with the violent dispersal of the demonstrations by the police, have increased national tension, with calls for mobilization to challenge the legitimacy of Daniel Chapo.

Daniel Chapo's call for dialogue: a gesture to ease tensions

In response to the protests, Daniel Chapo has spoken out to call for a national dialogue, inviting opposition parties to a negotiating table. Chapo says he wants to talk with all stakeholders to “strengthen peace and national unity.” However, the call has been met with skepticism by many opposition supporters, who see it as an attempt to legitimize a contested election. Protesters and opposition political leaders continue to call for an independent investigation into the post-election violence and allegations of fraud.

Towards an escalation of protests?

The opposition, led by Venancio Mondlane, has called for a national strike and plans to intensify the protests if their demands are not met. In a context where Frelimo has held power since 1975, Mozambican youth and social forces are demanding electoral transparency to prevent this controversial vote from reinforcing social divisions. The situation remains volatile, and many fear an escalation of violence if no political solution is found.