Maputo, Mozambique – At least three people were killed and 66 others injured during clashes between police and protesters in Maputo on Thursday, according to Maputo Central Hospital. The unrest followed demonstrations over the October 9 election results, which the opposition claims were rigged.
The fatalities bring the total number of deaths to at least 18 since the election, with some reports from the Mozambique Centre for Democracy and Human Rights stating the toll could be as high as 34. The opposition and civil society groups have criticized the election, saying it did not meet democratic standards. The Constitutional Council has requested clarification from the electoral commission over discrepancies in the vote count. However, the ruling Frelimo party has not yet commented on the matter.
Dino Lopes, the director of the hospital’s adult emergency service, stated that 57 of the injured were likely wounded by gunfire, while others sustained injuries from falls, physical aggression, or sharp weapons. Most of the victims were aged 25 to 35, though some were as young as 15.
On Thursday, thousands of protesters took to the streets of Maputo, chanting “Frelimo must fall” and blocking roads with burning tires. Witnesses reported seeing police firing shots into the air to disperse the crowds. Mozambique’s police have previously been accused of using live ammunition against political protesters.
Mozambique’s Interior Minister defended the police response, stating that it was necessary to restore public order.
