Mozambique’s Constitutional Council has confirmed the results of the October 9 election, declaring the ruling Frelimo party’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, as the victor.
The court on Monday reaffirmed that Chapo secured 65.2 percent of the vote, revising down the National Election Commission’s (CNE) initial results, which had reported Chapo with 70.7 percent.
His main rival, Venâncio Mondlane, had a revised tally of 24.2 percent of the vote, up from the 20 percent initially stated by CNE on October 24.
The ruling party also increased its majority in parliament.
Chapo, 47, is expected to officially take office in January, becoming the first President born after Mozambique’s independence.
Monday’s court decision comes after weeks of massive protests by opposition groups who allege the vote was rigged.
Mondlane has claimed that the October 9 vote was rigged in favour of Frelimo and that a separate count shows he won enough votes to take office.
Mondlane has threatened further protests if the court’s decision stands, raising concerns about potential unrest in the country.
The Constitutional Council’s ruling is final and is expected to spark further protests in Mozambique, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the disputed election.
JN/APA