Mozambique: Court Orders Detention of Venancio Mondlane’s Finance Chief

Glória Monteiro Nobre Chire, finance chief for Venâncio Mondlane, has been detained, prompting Mondlane to label her a political prisoner. The attorney general’s office is pursuing charges against Mondlane for inciting violence during post-election protests that have led to numerous casualties and significant property damage.

The Maputo City Judicial Court has mandated the preventive detention of Glória Monteiro Nobre Chire, the finance chief of Mozambican politician Venâncio Mondlane. Mondlane expressed his dismay on social media, describing Chire as a political prisoner, with her detention attributed to unspecified reasons. Her family reported the unexpected presence of a large police force during her arrest from their home in Maputo.

Mondlane further elaborated on the effects of Chire’s detention during a livestream, claiming she endured psychological torture and was prohibited from contacting her family or attorney for 48 hours. He asserted that the treatment rendered her a victim of wrongful accusations without a presumption of innocence. Chire, aged 59 and a retired accountant, plays a significant role in Mondlane’s financial affairs, especially in light of his recent challenges to the election results from the October elections.

Proceedings have been initiated against Mondlane by Mozambique’s attorney general’s office, primarily alleging that he incited violence during post-election demonstrations. Mondlane was questioned for nearly ten hours regarding accusations including incitement to violence and economic damage. He reported feeling uncertain about the specific crimes alleged against him as he responded to a series of inquiries.

In addition to the ongoing legal scrutiny, the public prosecutor’s office mandated that Mondlane regularly report his identity and residence. Furthermore, claims for €1.5 million were filed for damages resulting from the protests in the Maputo province, marking this as the second civil lawsuit against him connected to the unrest, which has seen significant casualties and damage to property.

The protests, which erupted after the 9 October elections, have resulted in substantial fatalities and injuries, with reports indicating at least 353 deaths and 3,500 injuries stemming from confrontations with law enforcement. The Mozambican government has confirmed 80 deaths, along with the destruction of numerous commercial buildings, schools, and health facilities, illustrating the severe impact of the civil unrest following the elections in which Daniel Chapo was declared the victor.

In summary, the detention of Glória Monteiro Nobre Chire has sparked significant controversy, with Venâncio Mondlane labeling her a political prisoner. As legal troubles mount for Mondlane, including accusations of inciting violence during protests and substantial civil compensation claims, the unrest in Mozambique continues to escalate, resulting in tragic losses and widespread property damage. The situation underscores the complexities of Mozambique’s political landscape following recent elections.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com