By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has issued a strong appeal for peace and restraint in Mozambique following the country’s general elections on held October 9, 2024.
The elections, which involved voters participating in Presidential, Legislative, and Provincial polls, were largely peaceful and aligned with the country’s constitution. However, the situation took a grim turn after the deaths of two political figures, raising concerns about potential unrest.
Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania and Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, released a statement addressing the post-election period, noting that Mr. Paulo Guambe, a representative of the PODEMOS political party, and Mr. Elvino Dias, a lawyer for the same party, tragically died on October 19, 2024. The cause of their deaths is currently under investigation, prompting calls from SADC for thorough inquiries and calm during this sensitive time.
“We also urge all stakeholders to exercise restraint whilst relevant authorities carry out investigations,” Dr. Hassan stated.
She emphasized, “It is in this spirit that SADC urges all stakeholders to uphold the period before and after the official announcement of the election results. As such, we call upon all stakeholders to ensure that peace and stability in Mozambique.”
Meanwhile, the National Electoral Commission (CNE) has yet to confirm preliminary results, and some opposition candidates and observers have already called the process fraudulent.
Authorities have until October 24 to publish the results, and a second round will occur if no presidential candidate receives an outright majority.
Meanwhile, in response to the recent shooting of its high-ranking members, the Optimistic People for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos) party embarked on a nationwide strike and protests yesterday. Nevertheless, tensions have escalated in the capital, Maputo, where police fired tear gas and bullets at protesters who gathered at the scene.
As the situation unfolds, SADC’s call for patience and dialogue is critical in steering the unsettled post-election environment in Mozambique, ensuring that the rule of law and civil rights are upheld amidst rising tensions.