In an interview with TSF, writer Mia Couto argues that Mozambique needs to find a “democratic model that is closer to its citizens,” stressing that this challenge is not unique to the African country.
Mia Couto believes Mozambique needs a more participatory political model, one that is “closer to the people” – just like “the rest of the world”. Fifty years after gaining independence, the author tells TSF that the country still hasn’t achieved a system of governance that addresses the population’s real needs.
He attributes this, in part, to the adoption of state models from other countries that are “politically and culturally distant.”
“We wanted to decolonize ourselves, but we ended up colonizing ourselves,” he reflects.
Winner of the 2013 Camões Prize, Mia Couto says it’s essential to find a democratic model that truly connects with citizens, and adds that this isn’t just a Mozambican problem:
“Who are the people who, for instance in Portugal or Spain or anywhere else, feel represented by this way of doing politics – where there’s a parliamentary democracy and [MPs] are debating things that are completely out of touch with people’s concerns?”
Asked about how he would like to see the country’s future, Mia Couto fondly recalls the moment 50 years ago:
“I wish there were the same sense of utopia that I once experienced – where people could gather in a large stadium and celebrate life together, without political, ethnic, or religious divisions.”
This Wednesday, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will take part in the celebrations of Mozambique’s 50th independence anniversary, at the invitation of President Daniel Chapo.
Source: TSF
