Mozambique’s new President Daniel Chapo has taken office in a low-key ceremony in the capital, Maputo, following a disputed election that has sparked widespread protests.
The inauguration was marked by a national strike called by defeated presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who rejects the election results as rigged.
Chapo, who won the October election with 65% of the vote, extends the 49-year rule of the Frelimo party.
However, his legitimacy is questioned by many, including opposition parties Renamo and MDM, which boycotted the swearing-in ceremony.
Even some of Chapo’s admirers, like civil society activist Mirna Chitsungo, express concerns about his assumption of power.
“He is taking power in a context where the people do not accept him,” Chitsungo said, citing a fraudulent electoral process.
The controversy surrounding Chapo’s inauguration highlights the challenges facing Mozambique, a country rich in resources but plagued by poverty, corruption, and unrest.
