Mozambique’s main opposition leader, Venâncio Mondlane, has declared plans to assume the presidency on January 15, rejecting the results of the October presidential election, which he claims were rigged.
His announcement follows days of violent protests by his supporters, demanding an end to nearly five decades of Frelimo party rule.
The capital, Maputo, was eerily quiet on Christmas Eve, with businesses shuttered and residents staying indoors amid the worst unrest seen since Mozambique’s independence in 1975.
Across the country, Frelimo offices, police stations, banks, and factories have been looted, vandalized, and set ablaze.
The unrest intensified after Mozambique’s constitutional court upheld the victory of Frelimo candidate Daniel Chapo, who officially secured 65% of the vote against Mondlane’s revised 24%. Mondlane had contested the results, alleging widespread electoral fraud.
In a Facebook Live address, Mondlane rejected the court ruling, declaring his intention to assume the presidency on January 15—the same day Chapo is set to be sworn in. Currently in self-imposed exile in an undisclosed location, Mondlane continues to address his supporters online, urging them to remain peaceful.
“We are with the people. We do not advocate any form of violence,” Mondlane stated.
However, the situation remains tense. Rights groups report over 100 deaths linked to the post-election violence, with allegations that many were caused by security forces. Police authorities, however, maintain that officers acted in self-defense when attacked by protesters.
Mondlane, a 50-year-old evangelical pastor and former Renamo member, fled Mozambique after claiming threats from the police. Two of his aides were killed in October under unclear circumstances.
As the swearing-in date approaches, Mozambique braces for continued uncertainty and potential escalation of tensions.
