In Mozambique, the campaign for the general elections on October 9 officially began on Saturday, August 24. The ruling Frelimo party, in power since the country’s independence in 1975, will face off against Renamo, the main opposition party that originated from an anti-communist rebellion.
However, a potential game-changer could be Venâncio Mondlane, an independent candidate who might surprise many. Issues such as economic inequalities and the handling of the conflict in Cabo Delgado are expected to dominate the discussions. One thing is certain: Mozambique will have a new president in a few weeks.
Current President Filipe Nyusi, who has been in office since 2015, is not eligible for re-election. The Frelimo party will be represented by Daniel Chapo in the October 9 vote. On that same day, Mozambicans will also elect their members of parliament and provincial representatives. African history professor Éric Morier-Genoud predicts that these elections will be “hotly contested,” especially given Renamo’s strong performance in last year’s local elections.
Ossufo Momade, leader of Renamo, will be their candidate, but Venâncio Mondlane, known for his anti-corruption and anti-fraud stance, also poses a significant challenge. Mondlane’s rhetoric has struck a chord with the populace, who rallied in large numbers at his call after the 2023 local elections.