Tensions Rise in Mozambique as Frelimo Leads Elect...

Tensions Rise in Mozambique as Frelimo Leads Election, Opposition Calls for Strike

Zim Now Writer

Mozambique’s ruling party, Frelimo, is leading provisional election results across all 11 provinces, despite growing accusations of fraud from opposition parties.

Frelimo’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, is expected to win the October 9 election, continuing the party’s governance since 1975. Opposition figures, however, claim the elections were rigged, an allegation Frelimo has repeatedly denied.

Venancio Mondlane, an independent candidate and Chapo’s main challenger, asserted that his own tally shows he is leading.

Mondlane called for a nationwide strike on October 21, accusing Frelimo of clinging to power to control the nation’s wealth, including its oil, gas, and mineral resources. In a video on social media, he urged citizens to paralyze all activity on that day to demonstrate the people's desire for change.

Lutero Simango, a candidate from the smaller opposition party, the Democratic Movement of Mozambique, announced plans to contest the results in court.

Final results of the election are expected to be announced on October 24.