Venâncio Mondlane, the independent candidate who came second in Mozambique’s controversial presidential election, has called on his supporters to continue protesting against what he claims was a rigged victory for the ruling Frelimo party.
The election results, announced on October 24, declared Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo the winner with 71% of the vote, leaving Mondlane far behind with 20%.
Speaking from an undisclosed location, Mondlane told the BBC that sustained protests could force the ruling party into negotiations. “The combination of diplomatic contact, protests, and international pressure will do it,” he said, adding that demonstrations should persist for two to three more months to maintain momentum.
The aftermath of the disputed election has been marred by violence, with weeks of protests resulting in at least 67 deaths, according to local watchdog Plataforma Decide. Clashes between protesters and police have overwhelmed morgues and burial services in Maputo, with reports of doubling burial rates.
Mondlane, who fled public view after accusing police of threats and following the killing of two of his aides, said the demonstrations are a response to a “deep violation of human rights” by authorities. Police, however, blame his supporters for the violence, accusing them of using children as shields and targeting officers.
Despite the growing death toll, Mondlane’s supporters have embraced creative forms of protest, including nightly pot-banging and daytime traffic blockades. Mondlane insists these efforts are exerting pressure on Frelimo.
“They know that if these protests carry on, there’s a huge risk the country will become ungovernable,” he said.
The electoral commission has denied allegations of fraud, but international observers pointed to significant irregularities during the vote count. Mondlane remains resolute, saying he will accept nothing short of a transparent electoral process. If reforms are enacted, he believes he could secure victory in the 2029 presidential race.
Meanwhile, President-elect Chapo and Frelimo remain firm in their stance. Chapo, celebrating his victory, declared: “We are an organised party that prepares its victories.”
As tensions rise, Mozambique faces an uncertain future, with protesters determined to challenge the status quo and the ruling party standing its ground.
