Mozambique’s attempt to heal deep political wounds following deadly post-election protests is being met with widespread scepticism, despite President Daniel Chapo’s announcement of a national dialogue and symbolic launch of a “unity torch.”
Chapo, who took office in March, initiated the reconciliation process after weeks of unrest triggered by the disputed October elections.
Demonstrations across the country turned deadly, with civil society group Plataforma Decide reporting around 390 deaths—mostly civilians—amid violent police crackdowns. The protests only ended after opposition leader Venancio Mondlane urged calm.
The national dialogue is to be led by an 18-member commission tasked with touring the country to hear grievances, ranging from rampant youth unemployment to allegations of nepotism and government corruption. Seats have been allocated to all political parties, with three spots reserved for civil society groups, which will be named by July.
However, the exclusion of Mondlane—the charismatic politician who spearheaded the protests and challenged the ruling Frelimo party’s long-standing dominance—has raised alarms. Analysts warn that his absence threatens the credibility and effectiveness of the dialogue.
“Leaving Mondlane out is effectively shutting out the people he represents,” said Andre Mulungo of the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights.
Mondlane, popular among younger voters, shook Mozambique’s political scene during the campaign, pushing aside older opposition figures and claiming the election was rigged.
Credit: ALFREDO ZUNIGA / AFP
Mulungo warned that without Mondlane’s involvement, many citizens may feel excluded from the process and reject its outcomes entirely.
The protests had devastating consequences. According to government figures, the unrest halted economic activity in the gas-rich but struggling nation, resulting in $500,000 in losses and 50,000 job cuts. Political analyst João Feijo said public anger remains high due to the authorities’ violent response, adding that the state must take accountability for the bloodshed.
Feijo predicted that the ruling Frelimo party would use the national dialogue to entrench its power, not to enact real reform. “They are not ready to give up control,” he said.
Critics also say the dialogue process is flawed from the start. Wilker Dias from Plataforma Decide argued it lacks genuine representation, particularly of youth, while labelling the opposition as victims of an oppressive regime.
Meanwhile, Mondlane continues his efforts to register a new political movement called Anamalala—meaning “It’s Over”—echoing his pledge to end government misconduct. Many of his supporters, energised by his campaign, remain loyal and hopeful.
“I believe we’ve started something that must succeed,” said Candido Guambe, a supporter. But for others, like young activist Celia Mucondo, the government’s dialogue initiative is a misguided use of funds. “It’s a waste. The state isn’t addressing the real issues. It will only worsen our situation,” she said.
Further eroding confidence is the prolonged timeline for the talks, which may stretch on until the next municipal elections in 2028.
President Chapo’s symbolic “unity torch”—currently travelling the country and set to arrive in Maputo on June 25, the 50th anniversary of Mozambique’s independence—has also failed to win hearts.
“You don’t unite a nation with torches,” said Mulungo. “Unity comes through fair governance, inclusion, and ending exclusion and marginalisation.”
