South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have pledged their readiness to support Mozambique in resolving its ongoing political crisis.
President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement in Cape Town on Thursday, emphasizing Mozambique’s importance as a neighbor, trading partner, and SADC member.
“We are watching very closely what is happening in Mozambique, and obviously Mozambique is such a close neighbour to us, a very good trading partner, and member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC),” Ramaphosa said, underscoring the bloc’s commitment to assisting Mozambique in navigating its current political challenges. 
Mozambique has been embroiled in protests since October 21, following the disputed victory of Daniel Chapo, the ruling FRELIMO party candidate, in the October 9 presidential election. Chapo secured 65% of the vote, while his main opponent, Mondlane, received 24%.
Mondlane, who recently returned to Mozambique from self-imposed exile, declared himself “president elected by the people,” rejecting the Constitutional Council’s validation of Chapo’s win. Addressing reporters at Maputo International Airport, Mondlane reiterated his claim, calling for the results to be annulled.
Tensions have escalated, with nearly 300 fatalities reported since the protests began. Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging all parties to pursue peaceful resolutions.
President Ramaphosa noted that SADC stands ready to provide the necessary support to Mozambique but did not confirm his attendance at Chapo’s upcoming inauguration.
Last month, South Africa sent a special envoy, Sydney Mufamadi, to Mozambique to address post-election violence and explore ways to restore stability.
Meanwhile, non-profit organizations in Mozambique have written to Ramaphosa, appealing for his intervention. The South African presidency has yet to respond to the request, as the region watches closely for developments in the crisis-stricken nation.
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