Mozambique is bracing for a major decision from its Constitutional Council as it prepares to rule on the contested results of the October 2024 presidential election. The outcome is expected to resolve the ongoing political crisis sparked by allegations of electoral fraud, which have led to weeks of protests and violent clashes with security forces.
Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition presidential candidate, has fiercely rejected the preliminary election results that showed the ruling party candidate, Daniel Chapo, winning with 70.7% of the vote. Mondlane, who secured 20.3%, claims that the election was rigged, accusing the government of ballot-stuffing and manipulating the count. His Podemos party, which is allied with Mondlane, argues that it should have 138 out of 250 seats in the parliament, far more than the 31 seats officially awarded.
The election controversy has sparked widespread protests across the country, crippling the economy and disrupting trade, particularly with neighboring South Africa. Human Rights Watch has reported that at least 130 people have been killed in clashes, with security forces accused of using excessive force in an attempt to quell the unrest. Demonstrators have targeted government buildings, including offices of the ruling Frelimo party, and have removed statues of prominent political figures.
Mondlane, currently outside the country and fearing for his life, has called for further protests if the court upholds the disputed results. He has urged his supporters to stop the country and has been broadcasting regular updates via social media. On Sunday, he appealed for prayers, asking for divine intervention for the judges involved in the case.
In response to the allegations, President Filipe Nyusi, who is set to leave office in January, denied any intention of extending his term. In a public statement, Nyusi condemned Mondlane’s rhetoric, accusing him of inciting violence and social unrest.
Meanwhile, international observers have raised concerns about irregularities in the election process, with the European Union reporting discrepancies in vote counting. While some analysts suggest that Frelimo’s overwhelming victory is difficult to justify, others remain uncertain about the veracity of Mondlane’s claims. The upcoming ruling by the Constitutional Council is now seen as crucial to determining whether the election results will stand or be altered.
