Tragic Surge in Violence Against Political Supporters in Mozambique

The Decide Electoral Platform reports the murder of Leão de Deus, a supporter of ex-presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, in Inhambane. This incident marks the 13th murder of Mondlane supporters amid ongoing political violence in Mozambique. Despite the multiple killings, the police have yet to make any arrests, raising concerns over political safety.

The Mozambican NGO, the “Decide” Electoral Platform, has reported the murder of Leão de Deus, a supporter of former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, in the Zavala district of Inhambane province. The victim was kidnapped and subsequently shot in the Chissibuca region on Saturday. The statement from “Decide” emphasized that he was known for his strong commitment to Mondlane’s political movement.

The Mozambican police have not yet issued any comments regarding the recent murders. According to the “Decide” Electoral Platform, these tragic incidents have raised the death toll of Mondlane supporters at the hands of death squads to 13. Just last week, two more supporters of Mondlane were shot and killed in the Massinga district.

A previous incident on October 19 saw the killings of Elvino Dias, Mondlane’s lawyer, and Paulo Guambe, an election agent for the Podemos political party, in central Maputo. Despite the densely populated setting, no arrests have been made in connection with these homicides.

In addition, on March 15, João de Deus Nhachengo was also kidnapped and murdered. His demise was accompanied by the brutal mutilation of Ivo Armando Nhantumbo, a 23-year-old leader of demonstrations in Inharrime. In total, the death toll among supporters of Venâncio Mondlane has reached 15, alongside one member of the FRELIMO party.

The ongoing violence against political supporters in Mozambique, particularly those aligned with former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, has reached alarming levels, with reports of murders escalating to 14 individuals. The inaction of law enforcement in apprehending suspects raises concerns regarding political safety and human rights in the country, highlighting a pressing need for accountability and justice.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com