In a crucial effort to mediate the political tension in Mozambique, the European Union (EU) met on Tuesday 14th with leaders of the main opposition parties, according to a press release. This strategic meeting, held a day before the controversial inauguration of Daniel Chapo as President of the Republic, aimed to explore ways of easing the crisis triggered by the 9 October elections.
According to the document, the meeting in Maputo was a platform for Albino Forquilha of Podemos, Ossufo Momade of Renamo, Lutero Simango of MDM and Salomão Muchanga of New Democracy to express their concerns about the current political situation.
‘The European Union is deeply committed to supporting Mozambique in finding peaceful and democratic solutions to the current challenges. We promote inclusive dialogue and stand ready to help build consensus that respects democratic principles and the law,’ reads the statement.
Since the announcement of the election results, which showed Daniel Chapo, the candidate of the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo), as the winner with 65.17% of the votes, Mozambique has faced a wave of demonstrations organised by Venâncio Mondlane, the second most voted candidate with 24% of the votes.
Mondlane is challenging the Constitutional Council’s decision, alleging electoral fraud and demanding an independent audit. According to figures from civil society organisations, the clashes between demonstrators and the security forces resulted in almost 300 deaths and around 600 injured.
Chapo’s inauguration on Wednesday (15) was held under heavy security measures. This event marked another peak in tension, with the Decide electoral platform updating the death toll during the protests to 11 on that day alone, with a total of 311 deaths since the clashes began on 21 October.
The EU statement also stressed the importance of all parties involved committing themselves to respect for legality and constructive dialogue. ‘It is vital that all voices are heard and that a common path is found to ensure political stability and national reconciliation,’ the document concluded.