Mozambique’s Constitutional Council has reaffirmed the victory of the ruling Frelimo party in the country’s disputed October general elections, naming Daniel Chapo as president. The announcement on Monday has escalated tensions in the nation, where protests have already claimed over 110 lives.
The council’s ruling adjusted Chapo’s reported win to 65% of the vote, down from 70%, and increased the tally for opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane to 24%. Mondlane, representing the Podemos party, has disputed the results, claiming he secured 53% of the vote. He called for a nationwide shutdown in protest, accusing Frelimo of orchestrating widespread electoral fraud.
Frelimo, which has ruled Mozambique since its independence from Portugal in 1975, has faced growing dissent, especially from the youth. While the party remains a symbol of liberation for older generations, younger Mozambicans have criticised it for corruption, unemployment, and failure to address economic decline.
Observers from the European Union and local groups noted irregularities, including alleged ballot-stuffing and forged result sheets. The Association of Catholic Bishops also rejected the results, further eroding confidence in the electoral process.
Protests have rocked Mozambique since the results were first announced, with demonstrators clashing with police in cities like Maputo. Security forces have responded with live ammunition, leading to what Amnesty International described as “excessive violence.” Reports indicate that over 3,500 protesters have been arrested, with the death toll reaching as high as 130.
The unrest follows the murders of two Podemos officials, which the opposition alleges were politically motivated. The government has denied involvement.
The protests have severely impacted Mozambique’s economy. Businesses have shuttered, tourism has declined, and cargo traffic at key ports has been disrupted. The International Monetary Fund revised its growth forecast for the country from 5% to 4.3%, citing the ongoing violence and the effects of Cyclone Chido, which recently devastated northern provinces.
South Africa temporarily closed its border with Mozambique in November after reports of violence at the Lebombo border post. Trade disruptions have forced neighbouring countries like Zimbabwe to redirect their cargo to other ports.
The Constitutional Council’s decision is final and cannot be appealed. While Frelimo remains in power, political analysts warn that the party’s legitimacy is waning. Opposition leader Mondlane has vowed to continue his resistance, despite being charged with incitement and having his bank accounts frozen.
As Mozambique braces for more unrest, the path forward remains uncertain. Civil rights groups have called for dialogue, but with trust in state institutions eroding, the prospect of peace appears increasingly fragile.
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