Peace or Chaos: Mondlane Warns About Election Results

Politics in Mozambique has been marked by tensions and disputes, especially after the general elections of October 9, 2024. Venâncio Mondlane, presidential candidate, expressed his concern about the legitimacy of the election results released by the National Electoral Commission (CNE). Mondlane, who does not recognize the results presented, is awaiting validation by the Constitutional Council (CC), whose decision is expected on December 23. This situation generates uncertainty about the political and social stability of the country.

The candidate emphasized that the announcement of the results by the CC will be a watershed moment for Mozambique. He stated that:

“If we have electoral truth, we will go to peace.”

“If we have electoral lies, we will lead the country to fall into chaos.”

These statements underscore the gravity of the situation, where trust in democratic institutions is crucial. Mondlane warns that the way in which the presiding judge of the CC, Lúcia Ribeiro, pronounces herself could determine whether the country moves towards tranquility or towards the precipice.

In his speech, Mondlane appealed to the population to halt all activities in Mozambique on 23 Decem ber. He suggested that:

“All activity in Mozambique must stop.”

The population must stay at home to hear the Constitutional Council’s ruling.

This call to action reflects an attempt at peaceful mobilization and raising awareness about the importance of the event, highlighting the need for a collective position in the face of the judicial decision.

In addition to the demonstrations, Mondlane announced a four-day period of mourning, starting on Thursday. During this period, he asked the population to:

Take a break from daily activities between 1:00 pm and 1:15 pm to sing the national anthem in honor of the “heroes of modern democracy”, referring to the 130 fatal victims of the recent social protests since October 21.

Mondlane also asked people to dress in black or white, depending on their mourning tradition, as a way of showing respect and solidarity.

The candidate also highlighted the importance of directing support efforts to the population of Cabo Delgado, which was severely affected by Cyclone Chido. He mentioned that, despite the political situation, the priority should be to provide solidarity to those who are facing difficulties due to natural disasters, highlighting the need for a humanitarian response.

The current situation in Mozambique is delicate and full of uncertainty. Venâncio Mondlane’s state ments not only reflect concerns about the legitimacy of the elections, but also the need for a collective response from the population. The decision of the Constitutional Council will be crucial in determining the political future of the country, and how the population reacts to this decision could influence social and political stability in Mozambique in the coming months. Expectations are high, and civil society is on high alert, awaiting the outcome of this important chapter in the country’s political history.