Rwanda has closed its embassy in Maputo ahead of anticipated opposition protests in the Mozambican capital. The protests, which are expected to intensify on Thursday, are fueled by allegations of electoral fraud and growing anti-Rwandan sentiment, as opposition groups accuse the Mozambican government of using Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) to quell unrest.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, confirmed the two-day closure, advising Rwandans, especially traders, to stay at home for their safety. “We want Rwandans to be safe and avoid any risks, which is why we’ve instructed them not to open shops on Wednesday and Thursday,” Nduhungirehe stated in an interview.
Protesters in Mozambique have been rallying against the ruling Frelimo party’s alleged electoral theft, with some claiming that the government enlisted the RDF to suppress opposition protests. However, the RDF, which operates in Cabo Delgado, over 1,700 km from Maputo, has denied the allegations. The European Union also rejected the claims, stating that it supports the RDF’s mission in Cabo Delgado and calling the allegations “false” and “groundless.”
These protests are part of broader demonstrations across Lusophone countries, including Angola and Brazil, with critics blaming Frelimo for corruption and the rise of criminal networks that have made Mozambique a key hub for drug trafficking. Civil society group Southern Defenders have condemned the erosion of dignity and transparency in the country.
In response to the unrest, diplomatic missions, including the US, UK, Canada, and the EU, have urged the Mozambican government to allow peaceful demonstrations and respect human rights. They also expressed hope that the Constitutional Council will handle the electoral process with transparency.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is expected to address the situation during an extraordinary summit scheduled for November 16-20 in Harare.
