Renamo and MDM decline to join protests but acknowledge Venâncio Mondlane’s constitutional right
Venâncio Mondlane, the presidential candidate currently in second place in the interim vote count for the general elections, has called for two days of nationwide protests on the 24th and 25th of this month, inviting all political forces, including parliamentary parties, to join in contesting the election results.
However, both Renamo, the main opposition party, and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM) have chosen not to join the protests at this time. Nevertheless, both parties recognize that Mondlane’s call is a legitimate constitutional right, which should be respected.
In an interview with TORRE.News, Renamo spokesperson Marcial Macome stated that the party is currently focused on internal processes aimed at contesting the election results through legal channels. While Renamo will not participate in the protests initiated by Mondlane, Macome emphasized that the right to protest is fundamental and protected by the Mozambican Constitution. “Renamo respects Venâncio Mondlane’s decision. We consider protests to be a constitutional right, as long as they do not infringe on other fundamental rights, such as security and freedom of movement,” Macome cautioned.
MDM has similarly opted not to join Mondlane's strike. Augusto Pelembe, MDM's deputy head of information, told TORRE.News that no decision has been made to support Mondlane's call. However, Pelembe acknowledged the legitimacy of Mondlane's fight and agreed that the protest is within the bounds of legality.
Pelembe expressed skepticism about the accuracy of the results to be announced by the National Elections Commission (CNE) on October 24, noting that they are unlikely to differ from the results already released by district electoral authorities. He remarked that Mozambicans have the right to protest when they feel their rights have been violated and that Mondlane reflects the sentiments of many voters who are tired of predetermined electoral outcomes. “The results won’t change, and Venâncio is voicing the frustrations of many Mozambicans who are weary of elections with foregone conclusions,” Pelembe stated.
Despite this, Pelembe expressed concern over the potential for the protests to turn violent, something the country, he said, can no longer tolerate. “I fear that the protests could escalate into violence, which would be tragic, as the country does not need more conflict,” Pelembe added.
Venâncio Mondlane, speaking from an undisclosed location, announced a new phase of strikes, calling for a nationwide halt to all activities and protests in all 154 districts of the country. He declared that now is the time to “restore electoral truth” and described the current moment as ripe for a “peaceful revolution.”
“I want to declare the opening of the doors to revolution in Mozambique,” Mondlane proclaimed, calling for a total shutdown of activities for two days, accompanied by street protests with placards, without specific points of concentration.
