Mozambique’s main opposition party has officially announced the end of its alliance with former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, citing irreconcilable differences over political strategy and parliamentary participation.
In a statement late Wednesday, the Optimistic Party for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos) confirmed that it has terminated its coalition agreement with Mondlane, established in August 2024 to support his presidential campaign.
This announcement follows earlier claims made by Mondlane’s legal adviser, Dinis Tivane, who accused Podemos of “selling out the people’s struggle” and failing to uphold their commitments.
The rift stems primarily from disagreements over parliamentary participation following last October’s elections.
Mondlane expressed dissatisfaction after Podemos deputies defied his directive to boycott seats in the Assembly of the Republic.
In response, Podemos said such a boycott was not stipulated in their coalition agreement and, therefore, could not be enforced.
“They took office in broad daylight, under the eyes of all Mozambicans and of the world. This did not violate the agreement and it is not an act of betrayal,” Podemos said.
Podemos criticised Mondlane for labelling the party as “traitors,” arguing that this rhetoric undermines collaborative efforts within their shared political objectives.
It described Mondlane’s behaviour as “inconsistent and extremist” and observed that he himself had previously taken up a parliamentary seat despite similar allegations of electoral fraud.
Mondlane’s political history reveals a pattern of shifting alliances; he has changed affiliations three times over the past decade – first elected under the Mozambique Democratic Movement before joining Renamo for the 2019 elections.
JN/APA