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Mozambique’s opposition leader, Venâncio Mondlane, has announced his return to the country on Thursday after weeks of exile and calls for protests challenging the presidential election results.
Mondlane plans to arrive ahead of next week’s swearing-in of President-elect Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party. Chapo is set to be inaugurated on Wednesday following the constitutional court’s confirmation of his election victory.
Mondlane, the runner-up in the election, has rejected the results, alleging electoral fraud and sparking violent protests that have claimed dozens of lives since October. He fled Mozambique the same month, citing threats to his life after two of his aides were killed.
In a defiant Facebook live address on Sunday, Mondlane declared his intent to return to Maputo’s international airport at 08:05 local time (06:05 GMT) on Thursday, urging supporters to welcome him.
“If they are killing my brothers… I will be there. You can do what you want. If you want to murder, murder. If you want to arrest, arrest too. I will be there,” he said.
Mondlane insists he won the election and has called for continued protests until what he describes as “electoral truth” is achieved. His supporters have led nationwide demonstrations demanding an end to Frelimo’s 49-year rule.
The electoral commission initially declared Chapo the winner with 71% of the vote, while Mondlane garnered 20%. However, the constitutional court later revised the results, awarding Chapo 65% and Mondlane 24%.
International observers have criticized the election as flawed, citing irregularities and manipulated vote counts.
The protests have triggered a violent crackdown by security forces, with rights groups reporting over 270 deaths, including protesters, children, and security personnel. The unrest has also disrupted the economy, leading to job losses for over 12,000 people and the vandalism of more than 500 businesses.
The crisis has spilled over into neighboring countries, as thousands of Mozambicans flee the violence.
Outgoing President Filipe Nyusi has called for dialogue, while Chapo has appealed for “non-violence” and “unity” amid the chaos. Mondlane has declared he will install himself as president on January 15, coinciding with Chapo’s inauguration.
As tensions escalate, all eyes will be on Mondlane’s return and its implications for Mozambique’s fragile political landscape.
