Following an election court decision confirming Frelimo's Daniel Chapo as the victor, Mozambique saw deadly violence
Violence broke out when Mozambique's highest court confirmed Daniel Chapo as the victor of the presidential election, killing at least 21 people, including two police officers.
Supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane led a wave of rioting and looting that started after the court's announcement on Monday. Chapo earned 65% of the vote, while Mondlane had 24%.
According to Interior minister Pascoal Ronda, 236 violent occurrences occurred around the country in the last 24 hours. Thirteen civilians and twelve police officers were injured in these incidents, which led to 21 fatalities. Twenty-five vehicles, including two police vehicles, were also set on fire. 86 prisoners escaped as a result of attacks and vandalism against a penitentiary and eleven police subunits.
Violence After elections Increases
Since the elections on october 9, tensions have been high in the nation. Violent protests broke out right after the Constitutional Council's decision, escalating tensions. Shops in Beira and Maputo were looted and set on fire by protesters, and several city officials were said to have fled Beira. Since the first election results were announced, more than 150 people have already died as a result of the violence.
Supporters of Mondlane, who are mostly young, have protested in the streets. There has been shooting from security officers in response. As of tuesday evening, the capital is still experiencing instability despite Mondlane's call for a "shutdown" to begin on Friday.
Effect on the Stability of Mozambique
The stability of mozambique, a country of 34 million people, has been negatively affected by the conflict. Deep political tensions in the wake of the contentious election results are reflected in the turmoil. In the midst of widespread turmoil and devastation, authorities are finding it difficult to restore order.
Social media footage demonstrates the scope of the harm demonstrators inflicted. There is increasing pressure on the government to uphold law and order while resolving the complaints of Mondlane's followers.As officials attempt to stop additional violence and bring peace back to the impacted communities, the situation is still unstable. As tensions in mozambique continue to simmer, the international world is keeping a careful eye on developments there.