Mozambique’s Constitutional Council Upholds Frelimo’s Election Victory

Mozambique’s highest court confirmed Frelimo’s victory, affirming Chapo’s 65% votes, dismissing opposition requests for recounts and new elections. Tensions surged post-ruling, with protests in Maputo resulting in over 130 deaths since October. Opposition figure Venancio Mondlane claims the election was stolen, and fears for his safety have led him to seek refuge abroad, while protests may continue amid ongoing unrest and recent cyclone impacts.

Mozambique’s Constitutional Council has upheld the results of the controversial October elections, affirming the ruling Frelimo party’s continued dominance in the country. Daniel Chapo, the Frelimo presidential candidate, garnered 65 percent of the votes, a revision from the nearly 71 percent previously declared by the National Electoral Commission (CNE). The council dismissed requests from the opposition parties for a recount and new elections, intensifying already existing tensions in Maputo, leading to protests and fears for the safety of opposition leaders.

Election unrest in Mozambique has been a recurring theme, with the Frelimo party maintaining a stranglehold on power since the country’s independence in 1975. The recent elections, held on October 9, faced substantial allegations of irregularities, leading to an international outcry. The Constitutional Council’s ruling has further inflamed tensions, prompting unrest that has resulted in significant violence and casualties, notably during protests against the election results. The background context consists of long-standing political dissatisfaction among the populace regarding Frelimo’s governance and the lack of electoral transparency.

The ruling by Mozambique’s Constitutional Council to confirm Frelimo’s electoral victory has not only reinforced the party’s control but also escalated political tension and discord among the populace. Opposition leaders have voiced concerns over election integrity, fueling protests that have already led to numerous fatalities. As Mozambique faces these critical challenges, the upcoming administration under President-elect Daniel Chapo will need to address deep-rooted issues of governance, Stability, and the welfare of its citizens.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr