Political Violence in Mozambique: Another Mondlane Supporter Murdered

The Mozambican NGO “Decide” reported the murder of Leão de Deus, an advocate for Venâncio Mondlane, in Inhambane. This incident marks the 13th murder linked to death squads targeting Mondlane supporters. Following multiple violent attacks against opposition members, police have yet to respond or arrest any suspects, indicating a worsening climate of political violence in Mozambique.

The Mozambican NGO “Decide” Electoral Platform has reported the murder of Leão de Deus, a supporter of former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane, in Zavala district, Inhambane province. He was kidnapped and subsequently shot dead in the Chissibuca area. “The victim was known for his strong convictions in support of Mondlane’s political movement,” according to a statement by “Decide.” The police have not provided any comments regarding this incident.

This incident marks the 13th murder of Mondlane supporters linked to death squads. Last week, two other supporters were murdered in Massinga district. Additionally, on October 19 last year, Elvino Dias, Mondlane’s lawyer, and Paulo Guambe, an election agent, were killed in central Maputo without any arrests made despite the urban setting.

Recent violent acts also included the kidnapping and murder of João de Deus Nhachengo on March 15, with his case further highlighting the danger faced by political dissenters in the region. A total of 15 supporters of Mondlane and one from the FRELIMO party have lost their lives in this post-electoral violence. The troubling trend continues as stability in Mozambican politics remains under severe threat.

The ongoing violence against supporters of Venâncio Mondlane, evidenced by recent murders, raises serious concerns about political safety and stability in Mozambique. With at least 13 supporters killed by death squads and a pattern of targeted attacks against opposition members, the situation reflects a heightened risk for those opposed to the current political environment. The lack of police intervention and the inability to arrest suspects exacerbate the fears within the opposition community.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com