Mozambique’s government has issued a sweeping ban on protests following weeks of violent unrest sparked by disputed presidential election results. The demonstrations, which began in late October, have claimed at least 18 lives, with Human Rights Watch reporting dozens more injured.
Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda justified the ban as a measure to restore public order, describing the protests as “acts of subversion and terrorism” that have disrupted daily life. “That woman selling bananas can no longer sell them. People can’t go to work; this is terror,” Ronda stated.
The unrest erupted after Daniel Chapo, the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, was declared the winner with over 71% of the vote. Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who secured 20%, went into hiding before the announcement, citing fears for his safety. His concerns were heightened after his aide and lawyer were killed while preparing to challenge the election results. 
Protests reached their peak last Thursday in the capital, Maputo, where soldiers were deployed to maintain order. Demonstrators lit fires and blocked roads, prompting police to respond with tear gas and rubber bullets. Authorities have since intensified measures, including restricting internet access, a move criticized by Human Rights Watch as an effort to stifle dissent.
Ronda accused protest organizers of exploiting “drugged” youth to destabilize the nation, vowing that “crime will be fought” and that such plans would fail. The government, however, denies allegations of election rigging, a claim raised by opposition groups and international observers.
Meanwhile, the unrest has had international repercussions. South Africa temporarily shut its border with Mozambique due to the violence. Additionally, two journalists from a South African TV station covering the unrest were detained in unclear circumstances. Their employer, News Central TV, expressed deep concern, stating, “We are working through all available diplomatic and official channels to secure their immediate release.”
As current President Filipe Nyusi prepares to step down after two terms, Mozambique faces mounting pressure to address allegations of electoral misconduct and ensure stability. With protests now officially forbidden, the nation teeters on the edge of escalating tensions.
Will this ban quell the violence, or fuel further resistance? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
