The protests that followed Mozambique’s contested October elections have been the most protracted and deadliest since multiparty democracy in 1990. Police have reportedly killed at least 50 since Daniel Chapo, from the ruling Frelimo, was declared winner by a fanciful 70%. The party has been in power since independence in 1975.
A parallel count by the small party, Optimistic Party for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), which supported opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane, claimed he was the rightful winner.
The government’s violent response to the popular protests has been condemned by various international entities. Less so by African regional ones, always very cautious when it comes to condemning a member country.
