South Africa has closed its main border crossing with Mozambique, citing safety concerns as protests over last month’s contested election escalate. The border authority confirmed the temporary closure of the Lebombo port of entry in Mpumalanga province on Wednesday, following reports of vehicle fires on the Mozambican side.
At least 18 people have been killed during the protests, according to human rights groups. Supporters of the opposition claim the ruling party, Frelimo, which has governed since 1975, secured victory through election fraud. Security forces have used tear gas and live ammunition to control crowds, while the government has restricted internet access and threatened military intervention.
Seven Mozambican officials have sought refuge in South Africa, the border authority said in a statement. Footage posted by a South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) reporter showed long lines of trucks, stretching for kilometers, waiting to cross into Mozambique.
The protests, organized by presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, who came second in the October 9 election, are part of a series of demonstrations challenging the official results. The electoral commission has declined to address allegations of fraud, and Frelimo has not responded to requests for comment.
Mozambique’s Defence Minister Cristovao Chume stated that the military is ready to step in and warned against any attempts to seize power. The Mozambican Centre for Democracy and Human Rights reported 24 deaths related to police violence, while Human Rights Watch confirmed 18 deaths but said the actual number could be higher.
The interior minister defended the police response, describing the protests as violent and saying the actions were necessary to restore order.
