Mozambique’s Defense Minister, Cristovao Chume, issued a stern warning on Tuesday, threatening to deploy the military to quell ongoing post-election protests. The minister alleged that these demonstrations, which have led to numerous casualties, are aimed at toppling the government.
Since the October 9th election, won by the ruling Frelimo party, the nation has been embroiled in widespread unrest. Rights groups report that security forces have killed at least 24 protesters, sparking international condemnation.
The opposition, led by Venancio Mondlane, has rejected the election results and organized several protests, which have often been met with forceful police dispersal.
Chume’s threat to use military force highlights the escalating tensions and the potential for further violence. The opposition has called for a major protest on Thursday in the capital, Maputo, raising fears of a significant confrontation.
Human Rights Watch and the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD) have both documented numerous instances of excessive force used by security forces against protesters. The EU election observer mission has also raised concerns about irregularities in the electoral process.
President Filipe Nyusi, while acknowledging potential security force overreach, has denied plans to declare a state of emergency. He urged calm and appealed to the youth to refrain from further violence.
The political climate in Mozambique remains highly volatile. The opposition’s challenge to the election results, coupled with the government’s heavy-handed response, has created a dangerous situation with the potential for widespread unrest and a humanitarian crisis.