Political Turmoil in Mozambique: Mondlane Evades PGR Summons Amid Unrest

The Mozambican Attorney General’s Office has summoned Venâncio Mondlane regarding post-election riots. Mondlane, reportedly in hiding after a police attack on his motorcade, will not attend the hearing. The attack incited riots in Maputo and Matola, complicating the political climate as a national dialogue ceremony was underway.

The Mozambican Attorney General’s Office (PGR) has summoned former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane to appear before them on Monday regarding a criminal case linked to post-election disturbances. However, Mondlane has indicated he will not comply with the summons, as he is reportedly in hiding following an attack on his motorcade by police, which his supporters consider an assassination attempt.

Dinis Tivane, Mondlane’s legal advisor, confirmed to “Mozambique Times” that they received the notification but stated Mondlane’s refusal to attend. Sources suggest he may have fled to South Africa, although his exact location remains undisclosed. Despite assertions that Mondlane was unharmed in the incident, the police spokesperson, Leonel Muchina, claimed there was no assassination attempt, asserting that the police were merely dispersing a crowd associated with Mondlane.

Footage captured during the incident depicted riot police employing tear gas and firing on Mondlane’s motorcade. Muchina also denied allegations by Mondlane’s supporters claiming that two children died in the attack, though independent observers report at least 16 injuries. The unrest following the attack resulted in riots across Maputo and neighboring Matola, particularly in the Patrice Lumumba district, disrupting traffic and daily life.

Chaos ensued with rioters erecting barricades, burning tires, and halting public transportation, leaving many commuters stranded. Rail services were also suspended, forcing those living in Matola to walk to work or forgo their duties altogether. This unrest coincided with a ceremonial event where President Daniel Chapo and nine political parties were signing a commitment to national dialogue, further complicating the political atmosphere. The police’s action against Mondlane has been interpreted as a challenge to Chapo’s authority and undermines efforts for reconciliation.

In summary, former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has been summoned by the PGR but has chosen to remain in hiding following a police attack perceived as an assassination attempt. The incident has led to significant unrest in Maputo and Matola, complicating the political landscape amid calls for national dialogue. This situation poses challenges to President Chapo’s governance and reconciliation efforts as tensions escalate across the region.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com