Mozambique protests could become a regional crisis – political expert
Citizens of Mozambique are taking to the streets against a disputed election result.
Border Management Authority officials monitor the the Lebombo border post following unrest on the Mozambican side of the border on 6 November 2024. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN
Tshidi Madia (in for Clement Manyathela on 702) speaks with Luis Nhachote, Mozambican Journalist, Omhle Tshingila, Project Coordinator at Right2Protest and Dr Rich Mashimbye, expert on politics and security in the SADC region
Listen below.
The most recent elections in Mozambique saw the ruling party Frelimo extending its 49-year rule.
The party claims it secured over 70% of the vote, which opposition parties have disputed.
ALSO READ:
Death toll of Mozambique post-election protests to rise: 'Voters feel cheated'
There have been ongoing protests in Mozambique after allegations of vote-rigging.
“The process was clearly very fraudulent.”
- Luis Nhachote, Mozambican Journalist
Civil society claim that more that 20 people have been killed by police in the process and hundreds more have been injured or arrested.
On Tuesday, South Africa temporarily closed the Lebombo border, over concerns of spillover violence coming into our country.
On 7 November people engaged in an organised protest march, but police and the army have reportedly been blocking the roads according to Nhachote.
“It is going to be a long day.”
- Luis Nhachote, Mozambican Journalist
Tshingila argues South Africa must condemn the blocking of protestors in Mozambique and the violations of their rights.
Mashimbye says this could affect stability in the entire region if matters continue.
“This is likely to evolve into a serious crisis.”
- Dr Rich Mashimbye, expert on politics and security in the SADC region
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.