Venâncio Mondlane, Mozambique’s main opposition leader, has vowed to declare himself president on January 15, rejecting the official results of the October presidential election. His declaration comes as violent protests, fueled by accusations of electoral fraud, engulf the nation.
The unrest began after Mozambique’s constitutional court upheld the election victory of ruling Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo, who was declared the winner with 65% of the vote. Mondlane, who received 24%, alleged widespread rigging and refused to accept the court’s ruling.
Protests have spread across the country, with Frelimo offices, police stations, banks, and factories attacked. At least 21 people have died in the violence, according to government officials. The streets of Maputo, the capital, were deserted on Christmas Eve as businesses shut down in fear of further unrest.
Mondlane, currently in self-imposed exile, addressed his supporters via Facebook, urging peaceful protests but insisting on his claim to the presidency. He faces significant opposition from security forces, accused by rights groups of killing over 100 people since the election.
The 50-year-old evangelical pastor ran as an independent after splitting from Renamo, Mozambique’s traditional opposition party. His campaign gained strong support from unemployed youth demanding change after nearly 50 years of Frelimo’s rule.
Meanwhile, Chapo, 47, dismissed allegations of rigging, describing his party as “organized and prepared for victory.” With tensions escalating, Mozambique faces an uncertain political future as Mondlane’s January 15 declaration approaches.
