Independent presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane has declared his intention to initiate a nationwide strike if the ruling party, Frelimo, is declared the victor in the recent presidential election. Following Wednesday’s polls, Mondlane claimed, based on data gathered by his delegates at various polling stations, that he is leading the race. Preliminary election results are expected to be released on Saturday, with official results not due until 15 days after the election.
Frelimo, which has held power in Mozambique since the country’s independence in 1975, faces accusations of election rigging—a claim the party vehemently denies. Daniel Chapo, the Frelimo candidate, is anticipated to succeed outgoing President Filipe Nyusi, who is stepping down. Analysts view Mondlane, known for his popularity among the youth, as a significant threat to the ruling party’s long-standing dominance.
In an interview, Mondlane warned of potential violence if the elections are perceived as rigged, although he emphasized his commitment to peaceful protests and legal avenues to contest any unfavorable results. “We will mobilize our population so that they do not accept the results,” he stated, underscoring plans for an “economic shutdown” if Frelimo claims victory. While he acknowledged lacking conclusive evidence of electoral fraud, civil society organizations have reported various irregularities, including the obstruction of election observers during preliminary counting.
The capital city, Maputo, remained calm on Friday, with a visible police presence on major roads. Mondlane outlined his platform for reforming the country’s tax policies to ensure a greater share of revenue from multinational corporations, such as ExxonMobil, benefits local development. He also emphasized the need for increased financing for young entrepreneurs.
Addressing the ongoing Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado province, Mondlane pledged to engage with insurgent leaders to foster peace and development in a region long neglected. “It is not possible to have peace in Cabo Delgado excluding the insurgents,” he asserted, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to the crisis that has displaced thousands of residents.
With tensions rising and uncertainty surrounding the election’s outcome, all eyes are on Mozambique as it navigates this critical political juncture.
