Amnesty International has called on Mozambique’s Frelimo-led government to investigate severe human rights violations during the ongoing post-election crackdown. The call comes after violent clashes between security forces and protesters erupted following the announcement of Daniel Chapo’s victory in the October 2024 presidential election.
The unrest has resulted in at least 300 deaths and over 700 injuries, according to monitoring groups. Reports also document numerous cases of arbitrary detentions, torture, and ill-treatment. Amnesty condemned the assault on journalists, including the unlawful detention and reported death of opposition journalist Arlindo Chissale at the hands of military forces.
Khanyo Farisè, Amnesty’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, called the crackdown “the bloodiest election cycle in Mozambique’s post-civil war history.” While the government has indicated possible investigations, Farisè urged for transparency and accountability.
The violence escalated after the opposition PODEMOS party challenged the election results, alleging vote-rigging. Demonstrations broke out, and security forces responded with tear gas and live bullets, resulting in numerous casualties, including deaths of opposition leaders and bystanders. A violent prison riot in late October led to the deaths of 33 inmates and 17 police officers.
In response to the unrest, Internet monitoring organization NetBlocks reported government-imposed restrictions on social media platforms, raising concerns over the violation of freedom of expression and assembly.
Several international human rights organizations have joined Amnesty in demanding an end to the violence and calling for justice for the victims of the post-election crackdown.
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