Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi hailed the completion of the demobilization of the main opposition party, Renamo, as a remarkable achievement in peace-building and resolving internal conflicts. The closing ceremony of the last Renamo military base took place in Gorongosa district, Sofala province, where 347 Renamo officers were demobilized, bringing the total number of former fighters demobilized since 2019 to 5,221.
President Nyusi expressed his belief that the demobilization process has bolstered Mozambique’s credibility as a peacebuilding role model. The end of armed attacks in the central provinces signifies a turning point, with the shedding of Mozambican blood due to political differences becoming a thing of the past.
Congratulations to Mozambique on the disarmament & demobilisation of RENAMO’s last military base – a decisive milestone for its peace process. #SilencingTheGuns in Africa and globally is our shared goal as members of the UNSC. pic.twitter.com/oxkWfU7sHY
— Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell MP (@AndrewmitchMP) June 23, 2023To ensure a peaceful transition, the government has committed to providing pensions to the demobilized Renamo guerrillas, even though they never contributed to any pension fund. Renamo has long insisted that pension rights were included in the 2019 peace agreement signed by President Nyusi and Renamo leader Ossufo Momade.
President Nyusi clarified that while the peace agreement does not stipulate pension entitlements, the government remains committed to addressing the reintegration and reconciliation of former guerrillas into Mozambican society. He emphasized that peace is an ongoing process, requiring the collective efforts of all Mozambicans.
Renamo leader Ossufo Momade called for dignified treatment of the demobilized fighters and urged their acceptance by all Mozambicans. He underscored that their demobilization does not signify the end of Renamo but rather a commitment to peace. Additionally, Momade raised concerns regarding irregularities during the recent voter registration process and demanded their rectification.
