“Funding issues may be behind the delay in holding the National Council, as we are coming out of an election process that demanded significant resources,” Chalaua explained.

The postponement comes as party members and militants ramp up calls for Momade’s resignation, blaming him for what they describe as an embarrassing and unprecedented electoral performance. Two days ago, a group of members gathered at the party’s national headquarters in Maputo, demanding his departure and accusing him of mismanaging the campaign.

Despite the criticism, Chalaua assured that the internal crisis would be addressed at the National Council, where members are expected to discuss solutions to the challenges facing the party. “We urge militants to remain calm and not disrupt the normal political activities of the party,” he appealed.

Renamo continues to challenge the electoral results announced by the National Electoral Commission (CNE), which positioned PODEMOS as the second-largest political force. Chalaua expressed hope that the Constitutional Council might revise the figures, arguing that the official data is unreliable. “The numbers released by the CNE are not accurate. We believe the rural vote could shift the outcome in our favor,” he stated.

Amid this political turmoil, Renamo has also condemned recent incidents of violence during post-election protests, particularly the case on Eduardo Mondlane Avenue in Maputo, where an army armored vehicle reportedly ran over a citizen during a march. The party has called for a thorough investigation and accountability for these actions.

Adding to the internal strife, Renamo’s military wing has joined the chorus of voices demanding Momade’s resignation, accusing him of failing to defend the interests of the party and its demobilized fighters. Despite the intensifying calls for his removal, Momade has so far resisted, delaying key decisions that could determine both his leadership and the future direction of the party.

(Idorcídio Mandlhate)