Maputo, Mozambique — Monday, December 23, 2024
Opposition presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane has issued a bold call for a nationwide five-day shutdown from Monday to Friday, urging Mozambicans to reflect on the country’s future. In a live broadcast on his Facebook page, Mondlane made a passionate appeal to citizens, framing the moment as critical in the fight against what he described as a corrupt and oppressive regime.
“A Unique Opportunity” for Mozambique
“This is not a week for work,” declared Mondlane during the broadcast. “From today until Friday, let us take this time for deep reflection on the future of our country. It’s time to open our eyes. This is a unique opportunity.”
Mondlane called for citizens to consider the path Mozambique has taken, highlighting concerns over governance, economic stability, and human rights.
Economic Criticism and Financial Concerns
The opposition leader also questioned recent government actions, particularly the payment of retroactive salaries to public servants and members of the armed forces. “After this, where will your salaries come from? Think wisely and intelligently. Let’s not be naïve,” he said, raising doubts about the country’s financial sustainability.
Sharp Criticism of Governance and Corruption
Mondlane did not mince words in his condemnation of the current administration, accusing it of fostering a culture of corruption, poor governance, and human rights violations.
“Let us see if from the mouth of Lúcia Ribeiro [President of the Constitutional Council] will come grenades, explosives, AKM bullets, or tear gas. They will decide if this country continues on the path of dictatorship, assassinations, death squads, corruption, scams, thefts, kidnappings, and abductions,” he said. “Will we continue to live on crumbs? We are drowning in misery, poor governance, and corruption.”
Election Results and Public Discontent
Mondlane’s remarks come on the heels of the Constitutional Council’s announcement declaring Daniel Chapo as the winner of the presidential election with 65% of the vote. The opposition has disputed the results, citing irregularities and discrepancies in the electoral process. Civil society organizations and observers have also voiced concerns, further intensifying public discontent.
Nation on Edge
The call for a shutdown has raised fears of unrest as Mozambique grapples with the aftermath of a contentious election. Mondlane’s inflammatory rhetoric and direct criticism of the government are likely to galvanize his supporters but may also deepen divisions within the country.
Looking Ahead
As the five-day shutdown begins, Mozambique faces an uncertain and potentially volatile week. Citizens, opposition parties, and the government await further developments, including the Constitutional Council’s responses to lingering complaints and appeals.
The nation now stands at a crossroads, with many questioning whether the current leadership can address the mounting challenges or whether it will face intensified resistance from the opposition and the public.