Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo party has secured victory in disputed elections, with its candidate Daniel Chapo winning 70 percent of the vote to succeed term-limited President Filipe Nyusi.
Independent challenger Venancio Mondlane, backed by Podemos, received 20 percent, surpassing the traditional opposition party Renamo, which placed third.
The electoral commission announced the results amid widespread allegations of fraud and vote rigging from election observers and opposition parties.
European Union observers reported serious irregularities during vote counting and unjustified alterations of election results, stating the polls failed to meet international standards.
The announcement sparked violent protests across several towns, with police using live ammunition and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
The situation intensified following the assassination of two prominent opposition figures, including Podemos lawyer Elvino Dias, who served as Mondlane’s advisor.
Mondlane has called for a nationwide strike on Thursday and Friday to protest the alleged rigging, while concerns grow about potential bloodshed. The opposition has until December to contest the results, with Chapo’s inauguration scheduled for January.
Frelimo, which has ruled since independence in 1975, also secured a majority in the Assembly of the Republic through the parliamentary elections, further strengthening its political control. The outcome has deepened political tensions and raised serious concerns about the country’s democratic future.