Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves has called for dialogue among political parties and candidates in Mozambique to address escalating post-election violence. Speaking on Thursday, November 21, Neves expressed hope that the Courts would resolve disputes, clarify doubts, and foster understanding among the conflicting sides.
“The situation is very tense, with daily protests, approximately 50 deaths, nearly 200 arrests, and close to 800 injuries,” Neves said at an event at the Presidential Palace in Praia. He urged calm and emphasized the importance of prioritizing peace through dialogue.
Assuring that the Cape Verdean community in Mozambique remains unaffected, Neves advised them to avoid protests and adhere to authorities’ guidelines to ensure safety. He also highlighted the recurring issue of post-election crises in Africa, stressing the need for electoral integrity, respect for results, and investment in robust democratic institutions to uphold fair and transparent processes.
The remarks come amid unrest in Mozambique, where opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane disputes the October 24 election results declaring Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party the winner. President Filipe Nyusi has called for calm, warning that ongoing violence threatens national stability.
In a parallel development, Mondlane announced he would attend a meeting requested by President Nyusi with the four presidential candidates from the October 9 elections to address the conflict. Mondlane, who has spearheaded protests for “electoral truth,” stated that the meeting would have a clear agenda and plans to submit a proposal containing “20 points representing the aspirations of the Mozambican people.”
Meanwhile, protests continued in Maputo for a second consecutive day on Thursday. Participants in a “horn honking” demonstration stopped their vehicles for 15 minutes at midday, honking their horns while dressed in black to mourn those killed in the unrest. Protesters also displayed signs contesting the election results. The action, called by Mondlane, began Wednesday and is expected to continue through Friday in tribute to the 50 people he claims were “shot by authorities meant to protect them.”