OAM classifies Elvino Dias’ Assassination as a threat to democracy and the Legal Profession in Mozambique

The Mozambican Bar Association (OAM) has condemned the assassination of lawyer Elvino Dias, describing it as a severe threat to democracy and the legal profession in the country. "Until proven otherwise, Elvino Dias’ death is directly linked to his profession," declared OAM President Carlos Marins at a press conference today, reacting to the fatal shooting of the prominent lawyer in the early hours of this morning on the streets of Maputo. Marins emphasised the connection between the crime and the practice of law.

According to the OAM, this tragic incident highlights the profound challenges Mozambique still faces in consolidating democratic values.

Carlos Marins expressed deep regret that, despite democracy’s reliance on the acceptance of differing opinions, Mozambican society continues to struggle with this principle. "Elvino Dias' death presents a significant challenge to the consolidation of our democracy. We are still grappling with fundamental issues like accepting differing views in a democratic state," stated the OAM President.

Amid a climate of tension and uncertainty, Marins acknowledged that the crime has instilled fear not only among lawyers but within society at large. However, he urged that fear should not overshadow the fight for the nation’s core values. "Now is not the time to retreat; rather, it is the time to reaffirm the founding principles of a democratic rule of law," Marins stressed, calling for unity and the defense of the principles that uphold Mozambique’s democracy.

The OAM also assured that it would closely monitor the investigation into Elvino Dias' assassination, demanding a thorough and transparent process. The association expects the relevant authorities to act swiftly in uncovering the facts and holding those responsible for this crime accountable, which has shaken both the legal community and the broader society.

Elvino Dias, a lawyer for presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane Jr. and the chief legal advisor to CAD/PODEMOS, was shot and killed alongside Paulo Guambe, PODEMOS' representative for the current general and provincial elections. Both were ambushed by two armed individuals while in Elvino Dias’ vehicle, which was riddled with bullets.

The crime occurred between 12:30 and 12:40 a.m. on Joaquim Chissano Avenue in the Coop neighbourhood, approximately 100 meters from where Dias and Guambe had been socialising with friends at the Malhangalene neighbourhood market, known as "Pulmão."

The perpetrators remain at large, and the police have yet to issue a statement on the incident.