Mozambique’s opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, has alleged that at least 50 people were killed by security forces during protests that erupted following the disputed October 9 elections.
Mondlane announced a three-day mourning period, urging supporters to wear black and refrain from further demonstrations.
The opposition leader has repeatedly called for a recount of the election results, which the electoral commission declared a landslide victory for the ruling Frelimo party.
He has characterized the election as fraudulent and accused the government of using excessive force to quell protests.
While the government and police have not confirmed the death toll, local human rights organizations have reported a significant number of fatalities.
Amnesty International has called on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to condemn the human rights violations and demand respect for the electoral process in Mozambique.
The tense political climate in Mozambique has raised concerns among international observers.
The country’s history of political instability and violence has cast a shadow over the recent elections, raising questions about the legitimacy of the electoral process and the government’s commitment to democratic principles.