NEW POLICE MANAGEMENT IN MOZAMBIQUE, A DUET TO END WHISTLES AND KIDNAPPINGS?

Paulo Vilanculo"

Mozambique has faced a series of challenges that directly affect its social and economic stability. Among the most notable problems are popular protests, often motivated by issues such as the rising cost of living and corruption, and kidnappings, which have become a major security concern, especially among business elites. This article analyzes the recent decline of these phenomena in the country, highlighting the measures implemented, the results achieved and the challenges that still persist. In exploring this topic, we seek to understand the impact of these actions on the consolidation of peace and security in Mozambique. Mozambique is currently facing significant challenges in terms of security and social stability, including a wave of popular demonstrations and kidnappings, especially in the country’s main cities. Although it is understood that the current demonstrations in Mozambique arise in response to social and economic problems, such as the rising cost of living and corruption. According to Castel-Branco (2021), “the population has used the demonstrations as an instrument of pressure to demand better living conditions and greater government transparency”. At the same time, kidnappings have become a growing concern, with victims often associated with businesspeople and their families.

The violation of human rights by the PRM and kidnappings have been scenarios that not only affect our PRM but in some way directly and critically affect the image of the government, which seems problematic and complicit in the problems in Mozambique. This can be argued from various perspectives, especially in the context of security, demonstrations and kidnappings that directly affect the well-being of the population. Some points that can be raised are:

1. of Demonstrations: During popular protests, there are frequent reports of violent repression by security forces, with excessive use of force against demonstrators. This violates the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

2. Lack of Justice and Impunity: Many cases of kidnapping and violence in Mozambique are not properly investigated, resulting in a justice system that fails to protect victims or hold perpetrators accountable. This reinforces a culture of impunity that undermines the rule of law.

3. Lack of Protection for Kidnapping Victims: Kidnapping victims and their families often face neglect by authorities, which represents a violation of the right to personal security.

Reducing protests and kidnappings may be possible through a combination of security strategies, dialogue between government and civil society, and improved access to information. Recent studies show that there is greater involvement of local communities in surveillance and security initiatives, fostering a sense of collective responsibility. Despite the challenges, social inequality, lack of economic opportunities, and corruption remain factors that may fuel future protests. As Bardin (2020) stated, “without a consistent commitment to human development, social justice, and security advances may be short-lived mistakes.” Now with the minister's appointmentsPaulo Chachineand Joaquim Sive as general commander of the PRM seems to predict that there could be a decrease in these events, indicating advances in security measures and a possible improvement in sociopolitical stability.According to the new Minister Paulo Chachine, significant monitoring and controls will only be possible with greater community involvement in surveillance and security actions. However, the Mozambican government, in collaboration with international partners, can step up efforts to combat these problems. One of the most effective initiatives will be the strengthening of security institutions. As pointed out by Nhachote (2023), “the creation of specialized units to deal with kidnapping crimes and the greater police presence in urban areas contributed to the reduction of these crimes”. We can conclude with Paulo Chachine• Bardin, L. (2020). Content Analysis. Lisbon: Edições 70. • Castel-Branco, CN (2021). “The Political Economy of Demonstrations in Mozambique”. Mozambican Journal of Social Studies, 14(2), 45-62. • Nhachote, A. (2023). “Security and Crime in Mozambique: Challenges and Perspectives”. Mozambique Today Newspaper, issue 135. that maintaining peace requires continuous efforts, dialogue between government and civil society and investments in human development.The decline in protests and kidnappings in Mozambique could be an encouraging sign of progress, but it is also a reminder that peace and stability require sustained and comprehensive efforts. To consolidate these gains, it is essential to maintain an open dialogue between the government, civil society and local communities.

2025/12/3