Mozambique’s Defence Minister has issued a stern warning about the possibility of deploying the military to quell ongoing protests, which he claims are aimed at overthrowing the government following the recent elections. Since the ruling Frelimo party’s victory in the October 9 vote, which the opposition has denounced as fraudulent, protests have erupted, resulting in at least 18 fatalities, according to rights groups.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Defence Minister Cristovao Chume expressed concern over the violent demonstrations, stating, “Violent demonstrations are sowing hatred between brothers, destroying infrastructure and showing how divided we are.” He emphasized that there appears to be an intention to challenge the democratically established government. “If the escalation of violence continues, the armed forces will have to protect the interests of the state,” he warned.
Chume’s comments come just days before a protest planned for Thursday in the capital, Maputo, led by prominent opposition figure Venancio Mondlane, who has labelled the event “the day of Mozambique’s freedom.” Mondlane has been rallying supporters through social media to oppose what he describes as fraudulent election results.
In the wake of the protests, security forces have responded with significant force, leading to the deaths of at least 18 individuals during crackdowns, including seven over the recent weekend, according to an updated report from Human Rights Watch. Chume also confirmed the death of a police officer who was allegedly killed by a mob during protests in Matola.
International election observers, including those from the European Union, have reported serious irregularities in the electoral process, suggesting manipulation by the electoral body to maintain Frelimo’s grip on power.