At least 11 people have reportedly died and 63 were injured by gunfire in Mozambique in a police crackdown on popular protests following disputed presidential election results.
Demonstrations erupted after the East African country’s electoral commission declared the ruling Frelimo party the winner of the election that was held on 9 October, thus extending its 49-year rule. Daniel Chapo of Frelimo was declared the winner of the presidential election, with nearly 71% of the vote, while Venancio Mondlane, leader of the opposition Podemos party, took second place with 20%.
Opposition groups and election observers have claimed the election was marred by fraud and its result is thus flawed. Podemos party has appealed to Mozambique’s Constitutional Court, requesting a recount.
Police tried to stop the protests taking place earlier in the week by using teargas and live ammunition to disperse the crowds, with Interior Minister, Pascoal Ronda, stating that security forces acted to restore order amid violent protests. Human Rights Watch (HRW) independently confirmed 11 deaths and more than 50 serious injuries, noting that actual numbers might be higher since many injured did not report to hospitals.
Social media access in the country has been restricted for the second time in a week following calls for nationwide strikes by opposition leaders over the contentious vote. Tensions remain high, especially after an opposition lawyer and official were killed just days after the vote. Residents in the capital city, Maputo, anticipating more post-election unrest, were seen stocking up on essentials.