South Africa has closed the Lebombo border crossing with Mozambique as violent protests over Mozambique’s disputed election continue to escalate. Supporters of Venancio Mondlane, who placed second in the October 9 election, allege that the ruling Frelimo party, in power since 1975, engaged in electoral fraud. In response to protests, security forces in Mozambique have deployed tear gas and live ammunition, leading to at least 18 confirmed deaths according to Human Rights Watch, while local rights groups report as many as 24 casualties.
The protests began with widespread demonstrations across Mozambique, and with heightened tensions, South Africa’s border authority decided to shut down the Lebombo port in Mpumalanga Province due to reports of vehicles being torched on the Mozambican side. In addition to the closure, seven Mozambican officials have reportedly sought refuge in South Africa, citing safety concerns.
The protests, spearheaded by Mondlane, are set to culminate in a major march on Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, this Thursday. As tensions mount, Mozambique’s Defense Minister Cristovao Chume warned protesters against any attempts to seize power and confirmed that the military is prepared to intervene if necessary. With internet restrictions in place and a heavy police presence, Mozambique’s Interior Minister defended the police response, labeling the protests as violent and asserting that security forces were compelled to restore public order.
The electoral commission has refrained from addressing the fraud allegations, while Frelimo has not commented. Meanwhile, trucks waiting at the closed border have stretched for kilometers, underscoring the impact of this closure on the region.
This temporary border shutdown highlights the urgency of the political crisis in Mozambique, as South Africa takes precautionary measures to protect public safety while demonstrations intensify across the border.
