Mozambique’s opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane has declared that he will install himself as president on January 15 after rejecting his defeat in presidential elections. The announcement comes as supporters staged violent protests across the country, demanding an end to the Frelimo party’s 49-year rule.
The capital Maputo was quiet on Christmas Eve, with many businesses closed and people staying home to avoid unrest. However, clashes between protesters and security forces have resulted in at least 21 deaths since Monday. Frelimo offices, police stations, and factories have been looted, vandalized, and set ablaze across the country.
Mondlane challenged the election result, alleging that it was rigged. He announced his plan to take office on January 15, a day when Frelimo’s presidential candidate Daniel Chapo is due to be sworn in. President Filipe Nyusi is set to step down at the end of his two terms.
It is unclear how Mondlane plans to assume the presidency, as he is currently in self-imposed exile. He has urged supporters to remain peaceful and promised that “we are with the people.” However, rights groups have accused security forces of being responsible for many of the killings, which have left over 100 dead since the elections.
Mondlane, a 50-year-old evangelical pastor, contested as an independent candidate after breaking away from the opposition Renamo party. His support is strongest among young people, who are demanding change due to unemployment. Frelimo fielded Chapo, their youngest presidential candidate, but he has also denied rigging allegations, saying they were “not true.”
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq5lyj6l6v6o