The Mozambican Constitutional Council (CC) announced on November 25 that it is “working hard” to ensure “electoral truth” regarding the October general elections, with final results expected by December 23.
In a rare and exceptional statement, CC President Lúcia Ribeiro addressed the “current moment of social alarm” and “high societal expectations.” While no legal deadline exists for the validation and proclamation of electoral results, the Constitution mandates that the new Assembly of the Republic convene within 20 days after results are proclaimed. Given the current legislature’s January 12, 2020 start and five-year term, the Council must finalize results by December 23 to meet constitutional obligations.
The CC urged citizens to exercise restraint while emphasizing its commitment to transparency. The Council also reported threats, including death threats, against its judges via private messages and social media, which it condemned as criminal acts that undermine democracy.
Since October 21, post-election demonstrations have escalated into violence, vandalism, and restrictions on individual freedoms, resulting in loss of life and property destruction. Opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane has called for protests against the results announced by the National Elections Commission (CNE) on October 24, which gave Daniel Chapo, the Frelimo-backed candidate, 70.67% of the vote. The results remain subject to CC validation.
The Council acknowledged domestic and international calls for electoral transparency and reaffirmed its dedication to upholding democratic principles.