KEY POINTS
- Mozambique faces €354 million($373.15 million) economic losses from unrest.
- Government bans protests, labels them terrorism.
- 34 fatalities reported after disputed election results.
Mozambique’s government has implemented an extensive ban on public protests following weeks of violent unrest that has left dozens dead and caused significant economic losses exceeding €354 million($373.15 million).
The turmoil, sparked by the controversial results of the October 24 presidential election, has intensified into violent confrontations between demonstrators and security forces. While Business Insider Africa reports at least 30 deaths, the Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (CDD) has confirmed 34 fatalities, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Post-election unrest and political fallout
The violence erupted after Daniel Chapo, candidate for the ruling Frelimo party, was declared the winner of the presidential election. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane swiftly condemned the election results as fraudulent, calling for mass protests to challenge the outcome.
In response, Mozambique’s Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda declared the protests unlawful, framing them as “acts of subversion and terrorism.” Speaking at a government briefing, Ronda emphasized the severe disruption caused by the unrest. “These are no longer protests; they are acts of terror,” he stated, highlighting the challenges faced by everyday citizens as vendors and workers were unable to conduct their business or reach their jobs.
Economic and social impact of unrest
The economic consequences of the protests have been devastating. Agostinho Vuma, president of the Confederation of Economic Associations of Mozambique (CTA), revealed that the country has lost 24.8 billion meticais (€354 million/$373.15 million) in just 10 days of unrest. Businesses throughout the nation have faced widespread vandalism, with 151 establishments reportedly damaged or destroyed.
Minister Ronda further accused protest organizers of manipulating vulnerable young people—allegedly under the influence of drugs—to incite violence and chaos. He called on citizens to cooperate with authorities to restore order, labeling the protests as nothing more than “acts of terrorism.”
Rising political and economic tensions
The government’s crackdown reflects the mounting tensions in Mozambique, where political and economic instability are converging. With public dissent escalating, the government faces increasing pressure to assert control, as the country grapples with both the immediate aftermath of the unrest and the long-term consequences for its political landscape.
