Mozambique Police Clash with Protesters: 14 Injured Amid Political Unrest

Mozambican police clashed with protesters during a march led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, injuring at least 14 individuals. This incident marks a significant escalation in post-election violence, which has already claimed over 320 lives. The ruling Frelimo party is attempting to stabilize the nation through a political agreement with Podemos, a party previously supporting Mondlane.

In Maputo, Mozambique, police clashed with protesters during a march led by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, resulting in injuries to at least 14 individuals, including two minors. This incident occurred as Mondlane, who contended he was wronged in the recent presidential election, sought to promote his newly established political party.

As security forces utilized live ammunition and tear gas to disband the gathering, chaos ensued, which was captured through live-streamed footage. Eyewitnesses characterized the response as an ambush, with tragic reports indicating that a child succumbed to injuries sustained from gunfire after being hospitalized.

These violent confrontations follow a period of unrest stemming from the October 2023 elections, in which international observers identified numerous irregularities amid electoral procedures. Since then, over 320 lives have been lost due to election-related violence. In light of the turmoil, Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo party has forged a political agreement with Podemos, previously supportive of Mondlane, aiming to restore stability in the nation.

The violent clash between Mozambique police and protesters highlights the escalating unrest in the nation following the disputed October 2023 elections. Despite the governmental efforts to stabilize the situation through political agreements, the ongoing violence raises significant concerns about the safety of citizens and the integrity of the electoral process.

Original Source: newscentral.africa