Mozambique: Charges Against Mondlane’s Treasurer Ignite Legal Controversy
Gloria Nobre Chire, treasurer for Venancio Mondlane, faces charges of crimes against state security and criminal conspiracy. Detained illegally for 48 hours without family contact, her arrest highlights concerns regarding legal rights and alleged political motivations. The Mozambican Bar Association intervened to ensure legal access, as Chire is branded a ‘political prisoner’ by Mondlane.
The Mozambican Public Prosecutor’s Office has officially charged Gloria Nobre Chire, the treasurer for former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, with state security crimes and criminal conspiracy. Confirmed by Chire’s lawyer, Mutota Escova, these charges have stirred legal and political controversy.
Chire was taken into custody at her residence in the Alto Mae district of Maputo on Wednesday, where she was unlawfully detained for 48 hours at a local police station. During this period, she was reportedly denied contact with her family, defying legal protocols.
Upon attempts by several lawyers to reach her, the police prohibited any communication, which Chire’s legal team claims is a blatant infringement of her rights. It was only after intervention by the Mozambican Bar Association that her family and lawyer were able to establish contact with her on Friday.
Mutota Escova protested the legality of the arrest, highlighting that the warrant dated back to February and was not presented to Chire until now. “The arrest is beyond comprehension. The behaviour of the police is entirely illegal,” he asserted, emphasizing the unusual timing of the warrant’s execution.
Further steps were taken to ensure Chire’s legal representation, prompting the Bar Association to approach the Attorney-General’s Office. Following this, the PGR confirmed that Chire’s family and lawyers could interact with her legally.
Venancio Mondlane has asserted that Chire is being subjected to “political harassment” and has categorized her as a “political prisoner.” However, officials from the police and prosecution have yet to provide specific details regarding the alleged security offences.
To summarize, Gloria Nobre Chire’s arrest and subsequent treatment have raised serious concerns about legal procedures in Mozambique. The events leading to her detention, the unlawful denial of legal counsel, and the ambiguous nature of the charges suggest possible political motivations behind the actions taken against her. As such, the situation underscores ongoing tensions within the Mozambican political landscape.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
