European Union election observers have raised serious concerns about irregularities in Mozambique’s recent elections. As the nation awaits the announcement of official results this week, tensions are high amid protests from opposition supporters and the recent assassinations of two prominent opposition figures.
Key Findings from the EU Election Observer Mission
The European Union election observer mission (EU EOM) issued a statement highlighting troubling findings. Some of the 179 observers deployed across Mozambique were blocked from monitoring tabulation processes in various districts, provinces, and even at the national level.
Major Irregularities Noted
- Prevention of Observation: EU observers reported being denied access to critical counting and tabulation processes.
- Unjustified Alteration of Results: There were instances of election results being altered without clear justification at multiple polling stations.
Laura Ballarín, the chief observer, stressed the importance of transparency in the electoral process:
“The EU EOM has noted irregularities during counting and unjustified alteration of election results at polling station and district level.”
She urged Mozambique’s electoral bodies to maintain transparency to preserve the credibility of the election results. Ballarín emphasised that:
“The publication of disaggregated results by polling stations is not only a matter of good practice but also a strong safeguard for the integrity of results.”
Escalating Tensions Following Violence
Tensions in Mozambique have escalated significantly following the killings of two prominent opposition figures last Friday. These events triggered protests among opposition supporters on Monday, which were met with police response that included tear gas.
The Victims
- Elvino Dias, a lawyer and advisor to opposition presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, was murdered in a targeted shooting.
- Paulo Guambe, spokesperson for the PODEMOS opposition party and a passenger in Dias’s vehicle, was also killed.
Mondlane has called for nationwide protests, alleging that the ruling Frelimo party is manipulating the election. His supporters clashed with security forces, raising concerns about further violence once official results are released.
International Response to the Violence
The U.S. State Department condemned the killings and urged for a thorough investigation. They called on political leaders and citizens to address electoral grievances peacefully, stating:
“We urge all state institutions, political leaders, citizens, and stakeholders to resolve electoral disputes peacefully and lawfully, rejecting violence and inflammatory rhetoric.”
What’s Next for Mozambique?
The official election results are expected to be released this week, after which they will be validated by the country’s Constitutional Council. This council will review any disputes raised by political parties before finalising the results.
Predictions for the Governing Party
The governing Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, is currently leading the polls and is anticipated to succeed President Filipe Nyusi, extending the party’s 49-year rule.
Conclusion: A Call for Fairness and Transparency
As Mozambique navigates this tumultuous election period, the concerns raised by EU observers underscore the urgent need for transparency and fairness in the electoral process. The killings of opposition figures and the subsequent protests highlight the tensions within the country.
Mozambique stands at a critical crossroads. The integrity of its electoral process will not only determine the next leadership but also set the tone for the country’s future governance. Citizens and the international community alike are watching closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution that respects democratic values.
