The Republic of Mozambique Police (PRM) said on Tuesday (18) that it uses legitimate means to disperse demonstrations, justifying the fact that some protests block roads and affect the movement of people and goods.
The head of the PRM General Command’s public relations department, Leonel Muchina, told a press conference that police intervention follows legal procedures and only occurs when calls for an end to the blockades are not respected.
‘The appeals are exhausted, so people should refrain from committing vandalism and blocking roads. In these cases, the police use legitimate means of prevention to restore public order,’ he said.
Among the means of dispersal used, the PRM spokesman highlighted tear gas, adding that any injuries are an unintended consequence of the operations. ‘There may be injuries, but these are involuntary circumstances that occur during the dispersal,’ he said.
The PRM emphasised that the right to demonstrate is enshrined in the Constitution, but argued that this must not compromise other fundamental rights, such as the right of movement and access to essential services.
‘People’s right to come and go cannot be jeopardised by those who decide to block roads. There are people who need access to hospitals, public services and other places,’ said Muchina.
The police also emphasised that no one should be coerced into taking part in protests and that violent demonstrations harm the country’s development.
Since the 2024 general elections, Mozambique has seen a climate of social unrest, with demonstrations initially called by former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who is contesting the election results. Currently, protests continue to take place in some regions, also covering demands about the cost of living and other social issues.
According to data from the Decide electoral platform, at least 357 people have died since the protests began, including 20 minors. The government has confirmed 80 deaths, as well as the destruction of 1,677 shops, 177 schools and 23 health centres.
Source: Lusa
