Post-election protests in Mozambique have taken a deadly turn, with reports indicating that 21 people have died following the Constitutional Council’s confirmation of election results on Monday.
The court ruling, which affirmed the victory of the ruling party FRELIMO, has sparked violent disagreements amid allegations of electoral malpractice.
Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda, in an interview with state media, stressed the government’s commitment to restoring order. “The armed and defense forces will increase their presence in critical and key points,” he said, adding that security measures are being reinforced.
At least 78 people have been arrested in connection with the unrest, and the government has warned of further detentions if protests persist.
Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane has rejected the court’s decision, accusing FRELIMO of electoral manipulation. According to Mondlane’s party, the election was plagued by voter intimidation, ballot stuffing, and irregularities in vote counting.
FRELIMO has denied all allegations of vote rigging and is preparing to govern for another term, despite critics accusing the party of consolidating power and suppressing opposition.