Mondlane Criticizes Political Agreement in Mozambique Amid Protests

Venâncio Mondlane criticizes an upcoming political agreement in Mozambique, deeming it “without the people” during a protest. The agreement, aimed at state reforms, involves several political parties but excludes Mondlane, the second-highest vote-getter in recent elections. He pledges to orchestrate five years of daily protests in response to public grievances amid rising social unrest, which has resulted in hundreds of deaths since October.

In Mozambique, former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has criticized an impending political agreement set to be signed by President Daniel Chapo and various political parties, describing it as an agreement “without the people.” Mondlane expressed his concerns during a demonstration in the Magoanine neighborhood, where he emphasized that the citizens’ voices are absent from the discussions, deeming the agreement merely a formal document lacking genuine support from the population.

The agreement aims to address state reforms and is part of dialogue to resolve a lingering post-election crisis. Scheduled for signing today at the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre, it will involve parties with parliamentary representation, including the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), as well as the extra-parliamentary Nova Democracia.

Despite President Chapo’s assertions of an inclusive dialogue, criticism remains prevalent, particularly regarding the exclusion of Mondlane, who, following the recent elections, has become a significant challenger to the electoral results as he secured the second-highest vote count. Throughout his speech, Mondlane promised to initiate daily protests over the next five years, advocating for a government that prioritizes the will of the people.

Mondlane’s declarations follow ongoing social unrest throughout Mozambique, exacerbated by dissatisfaction with the recent election results, which he and many citizens contest. Associated protests have contributed to several social issues, leading to at least 353 deaths, with serious injuries affecting around 3,500 individuals since October. The government has confirmed around 80 fatalities and substantial damage to businesses, schools, and health facilities during demonstrations.

In summary, Venâncio Mondlane’s condemnation of the forthcoming agreement between President Chapo and various political parties highlights a significant disconnect between governmental actions and public sentiment in Mozambique. Despite efforts toward political dialogue to remedy the post-election crisis, the exclusion of key opposition figures like Mondlane raises questions about the authenticity of these reforms. The ongoing social unrest reflects deep-seated frustrations that the government must address to restore stability and public trust.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com