Venancio Mondlane, the leader of Mozambique’s opposition, returned to the country on Thursday, January 9, 2025, after fleeing following the contentious October election, which triggered violent protests that led to numerous deaths.
Mondlane has accused the electoral process of being rigged and has urged his supporters to take to the streets in protest across the country.
His return coincided with a heavy police presence around Maputo’s international airport, where thousands gathered to welcome him. Witnesses reported that tear gas was used to disperse crowds, and snipers were positioned on nearby buildings.
Protests have continued intermittently since mid-October, and Mondlane’s return could intensify the unrest. Civil society group Plataforma Decide reported that at least 278 people have died in the violence since the electoral results were announced, extending the ruling Frelimo party’s decades-long control.
Frelimo has been in power since Mozambique gained independence in 1975, surviving both a brutal civil war and recent unrest. The ongoing violence has disrupted businesses and border access, with many fleeing to neighboring countries such as Malawi and Eswatini.
Mozambique’s top court in December confirmed the ruling party Frelimo’s election victory – despite multiple reports from observers that it was not free and fair – triggering a fresh round of protests.
Newly elected President Daniel Chapo is to be sworn in next week, another potential flashpoint in Mozambique’s political crisis.
Chapo and Frelimo deny accusations of electoral fraud.
