Venâncio Mondlane Alleges Assassination Attempts by Frelimo Party

Venâncio Mondlane accused the Frelimo Party of several assassination attempts against him, detailing a recent shooting incident involving police in March. He contended that these actions reflect a broader pattern of political violence and intimidation against his supporters, while he underwent an interrogation process without clear charges.

Venâncio Mondlane, a former presidential candidate in Mozambique, has publicly accused the ruling Frelimo Party of attempts on his life. During an interview with the Centre for Public Integrity’s podcast, Mondlane disclosed that there have been five failed assassination attempts against him, the latest occurring on March 5, when police fired upon his motorcade in Maputo’s Xiquelene neighborhood.

According to Mondlane, the police claimed their actions were meant to disperse his supporters; however, he is convinced that he was specifically targeted. He expressed, “Frelimo is very interested in getting rid of me”, adding that the party does not dare hold public events due to a lack of attendance.

Mondlane recounted the severity of the March 5 incident, stating, “They were real bullets, murderous bullets.” He pointed out that his cameraman was shot while he stood close by, suggesting that the police, armed with AK-47s, were aiming for him specifically. He alleged that over 400 of his supporters have died at the hands of the police since October, attributing this to Frelimo’s alleged political intolerance.

Mondlane further described his recent interrogation by the Attorney-General’s Office as a tactic of intimidation, noting that he was not informed of any specific charges against him and ultimately left without being charged. He also mentioned that police detained his treasurer, Gloria Nobre, amidst ongoing harassment, including a case opened against his spokesperson, Denis Tivane, by the Central Office for the Fight against Organised Crime.

In summary, Venâncio Mondlane has leveled serious accusations against the Frelimo Party, asserting multiple assassination attempts on his life, along with allegations of political violence against his supporters. His claims highlight a concerning atmosphere of intimidation and suppression regarding dissenting voices in Mozambican politics, raising critical questions about the state of democracy and human rights in the country.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com