Mozambique’s political climate is once again under strain as opposition figure Venancio Mondlane faces five serious criminal charges, including instigation to terrorism, in connection with post-election unrest that followed the disputed October 9 vote.
Mondlane, a vocal opponent of the ruling FRELIMO party, insists the charges are politically motivated. He claims the government is targeting him for speaking out against what he describes as “massive electoral fraud” during the presidential election, which saw President Daniel Chapo emerge victorious.
In the aftermath of the vote, Mondlane spearheaded widespread protests across the country. The demonstrations, which lasted several months, reportedly turned violent—resulting in the deaths of at least 400 people and injuries to more than 600 others, allegedly due to police crackdowns.
In response, 31 police officers are now on trial for their alleged roles in the violence.
Despite the charges, Mondlane maintains his innocence and says he is prepared to defend himself in court. “I’m entering court with a clear conscience,” he said, noting that he is backed by an international legal team. He further accuses President Chapo’s administration of reneging on a peace agreement both parties signed in March.
That peace accord initially raised hopes for progress, ushering in political reforms and culminating in the passage of a national reconciliation law in April. However, the current legal proceedings and resurging unrest threaten to undermine those gains, placing Mozambique’s fragile democracy in jeopardy.
