Protests Erupt in Mozambique’s Renamo Over Leadership Discontent

Protests by former Renamo members in Xai-Xai demand leadership change, targeting Ossufo Momade and Felix Tivane. Demonstrators accuse leadership of corruption and lack of internal dialogue. Tensions rise with confrontations between factions. Calls for a National Council meeting and persistent protests until demands are met.

In Mozambique, members of the former rebel faction Renamo held protests on Thursday outside the Renamo offices located in Xai-Xai, the capital of the Gaza province. The demonstrators, identifying themselves as demobilised former guerrillas, expressed their demands for Ossufo Momade, the party leader, to resign. Furthermore, they sought the dismissal of Felix Tivane, the Renamo provincial delegate in Gaza.

Tensions escalated as insults and physical confrontations occurred between the protesters and Momade’s supporters. The former guerrillas voiced concerns that Renamo had diminished as a significant opposition force under Momade’s seven-year leadership, citing issues of internal communication and corruption. They called for an urgent meeting of the Renamo National Council and reiterated their demand for Momade’s removal.

The discontent among the demonstrators also extended to Tivane, whom they accused of behaving with “arrogance.” Responding to the allegations, Tivane asserted that the dissenters aimed to undermine the integrity of the party. The protesters pledged to maintain their presence at the Xai-Xai office until action is taken against Momade, demanding his ouster as party president.

The recent protests by former Renamo members in Gaza highlight significant internal strife within the party, driven by calls for leadership change amid accusations of mismanagement. The tensions reflect broader concerns regarding the party’s effectiveness as a political force, suggesting the necessity for a reevaluation of its leadership and internal dynamics. Without resolution, these conflicts may threaten Renamo’s stability and influence in Mozambique’s political landscape.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com