The United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights has issued a strong call for Mozambican authorities to investigate the extrajudicial killings allegedly carried out by the country’s security forces in the wake of post-election protests.
Reports indicate that a minimum of 30 individuals lost their lives during the demonstrations that unfolded following the country’s disputed elections on October 9.
The period from the elections up to November 7 witnessed escalating violence and repressive tactics targeted at protesters engaged in peaceful assemblies.
Alongside the reported fatalities, around 200 individuals sustained injuries and at least 300 were arrested during this tumultuous period.
UN human rights experts expressed deep concern over the violations of fundamental rights observed in Mozambique, including the deliberate targeting of unarmed demonstrators and the excessive use of force by law enforcement agencies tasked with dispersing peaceful gatherings.
The experts called on the Mozambican authorities to urgently conduct thorough and unbiased investigations into all instances of unlawful killings.
“We call on the Mozambican authorities to promptly and impartially investigate all the unlawful killings,” the experts said.
They stressed the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for all citizens, particularly women and girls, to engage in political processes without fear of violence or repression.
In addition, the experts raised alarm over reported violations of media freedoms, citing instances of attacks, intimidation and harassment targeting journalists.
They also condemned disruptions to internet access, which have coincided with planned demonstrations, limiting the flow of information and stifling freedom of expression.
JN/APA