Local militias ask for guns and food

A delegation from the militias, which consist mainly of veterans of Mozambique’s independence war, met with Nyusi on Saturday, during his visit to the Cabo Delgado town of Mueda.

“We want more guns and we ask for authorization to chase these bandits, because up until now we have been on the defensive”, said one veteran who had volunteered to help the fight against terrorism in Cabo Delgado.

Another concern was food. “Regardless of the conditions, we shall continue to fight against the terrorists”, said another veteran. “But we are asking for food. Because of his war, we are not producing anything”.

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Josefina Mpelo, who was accompanying Nyusi, replied that “We are aware of your difficulties, and we shall do everything to solve the problems”.

Nyusi himself also promised solutions. “You had already told me about some of your problems, but the solutions are taking time because of bureaucracy, and there are those who don’t understand”, he said.

“We have begun with training the young people who were working with you, and shortly the other questions shall be solved”, promised the President.

Nyusi also explained why he has been visiting Cabo Delgado so frequently. “Almost every month or every two months, I am here in Mueda (headquarters of the Mozambican military in Cabo Delgado) or in Macomia and Ancuabe (two districts badly hit by recent terrorist raids) because, in my capacity as Commander-in-Chief, I must be where the forces are. So don’t get tired of me!”

During his visit to the barracks of the militia (also known as the “local forces”), Nyusi said he is open to any assistance in the fight against terrorism and for the restoration of peace. Mozambique, he promised, would be thankful to any other forces that wish to join this struggle.

(AIM)