In the aftermath of Mozambique’s October 2024 elections, which saw allegations of political violence, Human Rights Watch has reported that authorities have failed to conduct meaningful investigations into numerous political killings. Gunmen, some dressed as security forces, killed at least ten members of opposition parties, particularly targeting those involved in protests against the election outcomes. The police have launched inquiries, yet no suspects have been apprehended, leaving families and the public in the dark regarding progress.
This grim situation highlights a chilling reality: the inability of Mozambican police to fairly investigate these murders suggests a troubling disregard for justice. Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz, Deputy Africa Director at Human Rights Watch, emphasises the need for prompt and thorough investigations to stem politically motivated violence. Without accountability, it appears that a culture of impunity is taking root, risking further degradation of democratic governance.
The protests that erupted following the elections drew immense crowds decrying the results, amidst rising living costs and a backdrop of severe state repression. As many as 300 people reportedly lost their lives at the hands of security forces during these demonstrations, underscoring police brutality and excessive force. Allegations point towards the police being complicit in planning attacks against opposition figures, while hundreds more were injured or detained arbitrarily.
Reports suggest that targeted attacks on opposition members intensified, with a local monitoring group documenting 18 politically motivated killings by March 2025. Some notable cases include the murder of Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe in Maputo, along with several other Podemos members across the country. These situations raise pressing questions about the commitment of authorities to uphold human rights and protect citizens.
International human rights treaties obligate Mozambique to investigate and prosecute rights violations. The call for a thorough investigation into the post-election violence has echoed from various regional and global entities, urging that those responsible are brought to justice. Authorities must act decisively to counteract growing violence and restore faith in the rule of law, crucial for democratic integrity in Mozambique.
Following Mozambique’s October 2024 elections, at least ten opposition party officials were murdered under suspicious circumstances. Authorities have been criticized for failing to conduct thorough investigations, raising concerns of state complicity in the violence. Human Rights Watch calls for immediate action to address these killings and restore justice, emphasising the necessity for credible law enforcement in upholding human rights.
The ongoing political violence in Mozambique, marked by numerous assassinations of opposition members, signals a distressing lapse in state accountability and justice. The apparent indifference of authorities to investigate these crimes exacerbates a climate of fear and impunity, threatening democratic governance. Urgent action is necessary to ensure thorough investigations and prosecutions to prevent further violence and uphold human rights, as mandated by international treaties.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
