The President-elect Daniel Chapo has pledged to implement a series of economic reforms aimed at revitalising the country after the instability caused by the post-election demonstrations. Chapo warned of the negative impacts of the destruction of infrastructure and the closure of companies, guaranteeing that his government will be guided by the promotion of stability and economic growth, according to Lusa.
Speaking in Maputo during a visit to the Dom Orione kindergarten, the future head of state lamented the damage caused by the protests and emphasised the need to create conditions for economic recovery. ‘These demonstrations have caused incalculable damage. Thousands of Mozambicans have lost their jobs and many businesses, built up over years, have been destroyed in a few hours,’ he said.
Chapo recognised that the recent protests have exposed structural challenges that require an urgent response. ‘Our economy needs a new lease of life, and that involves reforms that guarantee a more attractive business environment, legal certainty for investors and stability for workers. We need to strengthen the productive sector and ensure that Mozambique continues on the path of development,’ he added.
Among the new government’s priorities, the President-elect highlighted the need to modernise economic legislation and strengthen the decentralisation of the state apparatus, allowing for more efficient management of resources at local level. Reform of the electoral law and measures to promote greater transparency and economic predictability will also be on the agenda.
The crisis generated by the protests, which resulted in the destruction of essential infrastructure, worsened the economic scenario, making it difficult to access basic goods and services. ‘People realised the hard way that the destruction of petrol stations, shops and banks had a direct impact on their lives. We can’t allow that to happen again,’ emphasised Chapo, calling for national unity to face the economic challenges.
The President-elect guaranteed that his government will be marked by dialogue with the different sectors of society, including the business class, trade unions and political parties, in order to define a package of structural reforms. ‘We will work to ensure that Mozambique has a resilient economy, capable of generating employment and improving the quality of life of its citizens,’ he assured.
Daniel Chapo’s inauguration is scheduled for 15 January, when he intends to detail the concrete measures of his economic programme, in a context in which the country is trying to recover from the impacts of political tension and macroeconomic challenges.
