Mozambican police allegedly resorted to excessive and lethal force, utilizing live ammunition and teargas, against peaceful protesters and onlookers in the wake of contentious local elections in October, according to Amnesty International.
The Police of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM) faced widespread unrest on 12 October, resulting in the deaths of at least five civilians, including three minors, and leaving 27 others injured.
Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, strongly condemned the PRM’s use of excessive force, asserting that it violated the country’s Constitution and international human rights obligations.
Chagutah stated, “Mozambican authorities must comply with international standards governing law enforcement conduct and use of force. They must conduct thorough, impartial investigations into these allegations, ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. Victims must be provided with access to justice and effective remedies.”
The tragic casualties included a 16-year-old boy in Chiúre, Cabo Delgado province, a 14-year-old boy, Atipo Ajuma, and a 17-year-old boy hiding from the police with his father.
Disputed Election Results Precipitate Unrest
Following the Mozambican Electoral Commission’s announcement of the ruling party Frelimo’s victory in 64 out of 65 municipalities, unrest intensified. The main opposition party, Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), lost in all but one municipality, Beira. This unexpected outcome fueled protests across several cities, with police resorting to violent means to disperse demonstrators and bystanders, resulting in casualties and numerous detentions.
The Response and Calls for Release
Amidst the turmoil, Amnesty International has called for the immediate release of all peaceful protesters, supporters, and members of the opposition Renamo party who have been detained. Reports have surfaced of family members being denied access to their relatives, with many detainees held under degrading conditions without formal charges.
Ana Alberto, a mother of three detainees, shared her plight, saying, “I have three sons who were detained while they were selling in downtown Maputo. As there were many people protesting, when police arrived, they detained with no distinction between the ones protesting and those selling around. That is how my sons have been detained.”
Unraveling the Election Fallout
The aftermath of the municipal elections on 11 October 2023 saw peaceful protests and celebrations by members and supporters of the main opposition party, Renamo. However, in response, law enforcement officials from PRM allegedly resorted to violence, particularly in the municipalities contested by Renamo.
In conclusion, the use of excessive force against civilians following the disputed local elections in Mozambique warrants thorough investigation and accountability. The call for authorities to adhere to international standards and ensure justice for the victims remains imperative.
