Amnesty International has issued an urgent appeal to the Mozambican government, calling for an end to violent repression of protesters challenging last month’s election results. Demonstrations, fueled by allegations of electoral manipulation, have erupted across the country, with the government’s response turning increasingly forceful. Human rights groups report that at least 20 people have lost their lives in post-election violence, and escalating tensions show little sign of easing.
On Thursday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of the capital, Maputo, setting tires ablaze and blocking main roads. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowds, and witnesses reported incidents of rubber bullets being fired. Amnesty International’s Cidia Chissungo noted the severe strain in Mozambique as authorities move to quell dissent.
“There are cases of people who have already been shot. We cannot confirm how many died this morning,” Chissungo said. “We are still analyzing all the evidence we’re receiving. Arrests are happening not only in Maputo but also in Nyambane province, and the police have been firing rubber bullets. There is massive tension today, and nobody knows how this will end.”
Allegations of Electoral Irregularities
The protests erupted following the October 9 election, in which Daniel Chapo, the candidate for the ruling Frelimo Party, was declared the winner with over 70% of the vote. Frelimo has governed Mozambique since independence nearly five decades ago. However, opposition parties and civil society groups have criticized the election process, claiming the results were rigged in Frelimo’s favor. The Mozambican government has denied the allegations, insisting the election was fair.
Electoral observers, however, noted multiple irregularities, including limited transparency and reports of voter intimidation. These concerns have galvanized opposition supporters, who are calling for greater accountability. Amnesty International has highlighted the excessive use of force by security forces, which, it says, only serves to deepen the divide.
“Police should respect people’s right to protest,” Chissungo said. “There are cases of people simply standing on the streets, and police decided to arrest them. If citizens are demanding answers and seeking clarification over the election, it is the authorities’ duty to listen. Using violence against protesters only exacerbates the situation.”
Internet Restrictions Add to Mounting Tensions
In addition to the physical crackdown, Mozambican authorities have implemented internet restrictions, hampering citizens’ access to information and stifling communication. Human Rights Watch’s Africa advocacy director, Allan Ngari, criticized the restrictions, emphasizing that access to the internet is integral to exercising freedom of expression, facilitating peaceful assembly, and supporting livelihoods.
“Sometimes the internet is available, sometimes it isn’t—it’s not a full shutdown but rather intermittent restrictions,” Ngari explained. “This violates multiple rights, including the right to freedom of speech and peaceful protest, as well as access to information. The internet is also a source of income for many, and the restrictions impact their ability to earn a living.”
On Thursday, internet access was unexpectedly restored after days of disruptions, although uncertainty remains about future access. For many Mozambicans, restricted connectivity has exacerbated the sense of disenfranchisement and fuelled perceptions that the government is trying to suppress information.
Regional Repercussions
The situation has drawn the attention of neighboring countries, particularly South Africa, which shares a border with Mozambique. Citing security concerns, South Africa temporarily closed its main border crossing with Mozambique on Wednesday and advised its citizens against travel to the country until tensions ease.
As protests continue and calls for governmental accountability grow louder, the response from Mozambique’s leadership will be critical in determining the course of the unrest. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have both urged Mozambican authorities to lift restrictions on protests and internet access and to approach citizens’ demands with transparency and restraint.
The Mozambican government’s reaction to this unrest could set the tone for how the country navigates growing domestic discontent. With accusations of electoral fraud still hanging in the air, the call for a peaceful and democratic resolution will likely intensify.
