Venâncio Mondlane Scheduled to Appear Before Mozambican Attorney General’s Office

Venâncio Mondlane is set to appear at the Attorney General’s Office in Maputo on Tuesday in relation to a criminal case. His hearing has been postponed from an earlier date at his request. The postponement follows growing tensions from protests against election results, where fatalities have been reported. Mondlane’s actions and legal issues highlight significant political challenges in Mozambique.

Venâncio Mondlane, a noted politician in Mozambique, has announced his intention to appear at the Attorney General’s Office in Maputo tomorrow to participate in a criminal investigation. He made this declaration through his official Facebook account, stating, “See you tomorrow, at 9:00 am, at the PGR.” His advisor, Dinis Tivane, affirmed Mondlane’s attendance after completing his official engagements abroad, where images of him with former President Ian Khama of Botswana were shared online.

The hearing initially scheduled for earlier today was postponed to Tuesday after a request was made by Mondlane’s representative at the Public Prosecutor’s Office (PGR). The new appointment is set for 9:00 am local time, according to PGR sources. This hearing pertains to a criminal case initiated last year against Mondlane, amid rising tensions following his protests against the recent election results.

Since October, Mondlane has faced at least two known legal challenges related to demonstrations against the electoral outcomes. Notably, he has remained silent publicly following a police incident aimed at dispersing a following crowd during one of his demonstrations. Additionally, he has filed for compensation for damage sustained during protests, seeking 1.5 million euros for losses in Maputo province.

The PGR has also addressed a self-proclaimed “presidential decree” issued by Mondlane, marking it as a potential violation of constitutional law, as it undermines the authority reserved for state bodies. This decree, published in a local periodical, outlined extensive measures Mondlane aims to implement, including calls for public accountability against police units he accused of human rights violations.

In the context of the election results, Mondlane was recognized by the Constitutional Council as the second most-voted candidate in the presidential race held on October 9. The elections resulted in Daniel Chapo assuming the presidency, signifying the most significant electoral challenge in Mozambique since the onset of multi-party elections in 1994. It has been reported that these protests have resulted in numerous casualties, with local organizations estimating at least 353 deaths, though the government acknowledges 80 fatalities.

Venâncio Mondlane’s forthcoming appearance at the Public Prosecutor’s Office underscores the escalating political tension in Mozambique following the election results. With active legal challenges against him and ongoing protests, his situation reflects broader issues surrounding electoral integrity and state response to dissent. The developments around Mondlane will likely continue to influence the political landscape in Mozambique as the country navigates its democratic processes.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com