At least 50 people were injured in fresh violent protests in Mozambique after the Constitutional Council declared Daniel Chapo as the winner of the contested presidential election held on October 9.
The announcement, made Monday, confirmed Chapo of the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) had won.
His victory, however, was disputed by opposition supporters.
Protests erupted immediately after the results were revealed, with demonstrators accusing the government of electoral manipulation.
At least 50 protesters suffered gunshot wounds and were rushed to Maputo Central Hospital for treatment.
The violence saw protesters vandalize public facilities, including police stations, gas stations, and bank branches.
The destruction left several areas in the capital, Maputo, severely impacted.
Earlier, the Constitutional Council had upheld the election results while adjusting Chapo’s victory margin.
The initial 71% was reduced to 65%, fueling further outrage among opposition groups.
The protests, which began in late October, have resulted in over 130 deaths, according to human rights groups.
Critics have also condemned the excessive use of force by Mozambican security forces to suppress the unrest.
In response, opposition leader Venancio Mondlane called for continued protests.
On social media, Mondlane urged his supporters to brace for “difficult days ahead” but assured them that victory would eventually be theirs.
Meanwhile, neighboring South Africa expressed deep concern over the violence and urged all parties in Mozambique to engage in dialogue.
Pretoria offered its assistance in facilitating talks to address the growing crisis and prevent further escalation.