A top opposition candidate in the disputed general election in Mozambique has accused security forces of killing his lawyer as the country awaits official results. Venancio Mondlane, running as an independent with support from the small Podemos party, alleged that his lawyer, Elvino Dias, was killed by special forces while preparing to contest the election results.
“This was a crime committed by the defence and security forces. There’s no doubt about it,” Mondlane said, claiming Dias was ambushed and shot dead in Maputo along with Paulo Guambe, another ally.
The killings, which occurred between Friday and Saturday, come as tensions rise over the October 9 elections. The ruling Frelimo party, in power for nearly 50 years, is expected to claim victory. The European Union and other international observers have raised concerns over “irregularities” in the election process.
Funerals for the victims are expected this week, while Mondlane has called for nationwide protests against what he predicts will be profoundly false election results.
