Mozambique: Mondlane Critiques Political Agreement and Promises Protests

Former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has condemned an upcoming political agreement in Mozambique as lacking genuine public participation, vowing to organize daily protests for five years. The agreement, intended to address a post-election crisis, will be signed between the president and key political parties. Social unrest has surged since the controversial election results in October, leading to widespread protests, fatalities, and significant property damage.

Former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has publicly criticized the political agreement set to be signed by the Mozambican president and various political parties, referring to it as an agreement “without the people.” He vowed to initiate daily protests for five years to compel the government to adhere to the will of the populace. Mondlane articulated his concerns to a large crowd in the Magoanine neighborhood during a march, stressing that the forthcoming agreement lacked genuine public involvement.

The signing ceremony, scheduled at the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre, includes Mozambique’s main political parties as part of ongoing dialogue to address a post-election crisis. Among the parties participating are the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), alongside the extra-parliamentary Nova Democracia. Critics, including academics and analysts, have pointed out the notable absence of Mondlane, the second-highest vote-getter in the most recent election, from these discussions.

Mondlane, contesting the election results from October 9 that favored Daniel Chapo, announced a plan for extensive public demonstrations from 2025 through 2030, amounting to 1,825 days of protest. He declared that failure to meet the demands of the populace would mean the government would not maintain power in Mozambique. Social unrest has escalated in Mozambique since October, spurred by dissatisfaction with the election results and the rising cost of living.

Recent tensions have resulted in significant violence and unrest, with non-governmental organization Decide reporting at least 353 fatalities, including minors, and approximately 3,500 injuries stemming from the protests. The government, while confirming some fatalities, has reported the destruction of numerous commercial establishments, schools, and health facilities during this period of civil discontent.

In summary, Venâncio Mondlane’s criticism of the upcoming political agreement underscores considerable discontent among the Mozambican populace regarding their representation in government decisions. His commitment to extensive protests signals a rising demand for accountability in governance, particularly following a contentious election. With the country grappling with social unrest and calls for reform, the situation remains tense as citizens express their grievances over various socio-economic issues.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com