The Mozambican government has threatening to deploy the army to quell ongoing protests that have turned deadly in the wake of the October 9 elections won by the ruling Frelimo party.
Defence Minister Cristovao Chume issued a stark warning on Tuesday in which he characterised the protests as attempts to overthrow the government, stating they have resulted in significant casualties and civil unrest.
“There is an intention to change the democratically established power… If the escalation of violence continues, the armed forces will have to protect the interests of the state,” Chume told reporters in Maputo late Tuesday.
Rights organisations report that the police have killed approximately two dozen individuals during the protests, which have erupted since the election results were announced on October 24.
The results showed that Frelimo candidate Daniel Chapo secured over 70 percent of the votes, while independent candidate Venancio Mondlane received around 20 percent.
Mondlane, who is backed by the opposition Podemos, rejected the electoral outcomes and has organised multiple protests, most of which have been forcibly dispersed by police.
The minister’s warning comes ahead of a planned protest on Thursday in Maputo, labelled “the day of Mozambique’s freedom” by Mondlane.
Election observers, including representatives from the European Union, have cited serious irregularities in the electoral process, with allegations of manipulation aimed at ensuring Frelimo’s continued dominance.
JN/APA