Quelimane, Mozambique – December 23, 2024
Tensions reached a boiling point in Mozambique on Sunday as citizens vowed to stand firm, even at the cost of their lives, to protect democracy following the announcement of the election results scheduled for today.
Leading the charge is Quelimane’s City Mayor, Manuel de Araújo, a prominent figure from the opposition Renamo party. In a passionate address during a march on December 22 in Zambézia province, Araújo called on the people to take decisive action once the results are revealed—results widely expected to favor the ruling Frelimo party.
“We don’t need binoculars to see a thief. We already know what they will announce tomorrow,” Araújo declared to a crowd of thousands. “But do we know what we have to do from tomorrow onwards or not?” The crowd roared in agreement.
Araújo laid responsibility for the unfolding political crisis squarely at the feet of Lúcia Ribeiro, President of Mozambique’s Constitutional Council. “From tomorrow onwards, the responsibility for peace or violence lies with Lúcia Ribeiro. We have already proven we are for peace.”
Citing the sacrifices of Renamo’s late leaders, Commander André Matsangaissa and President Afonso Dhlakama, Araújo vowed to continue their fight for democracy. “Commander André Matsangaissa died in combat. Today, we have democracy or not? President Afonso Dlhakama died fighting for democracy. That’s why, let’s all be ready to give our lives. I am ready to give my life so no tyranny will enslave us again.”
A Country at a Crossroads
Mozambique’s electoral process has been marred by allegations of corruption, voter suppression, and manipulation. Opposition parties, civil society groups, and international observers have raised concerns about the credibility of the results, which are expected to consolidate Frelimo’s decades-long grip on power.
The Renamo party, historically a fierce opponent of Frelimo, has warned of potential unrest if the election results fail to reflect the will of the people. Sunday’s march in Quelimane is one of many signs of escalating discontent across the nation.
A Call to Action
Araújo’s speech has sparked a wave of solidarity on social media, with hashtags like #FreeMozambique and #MozambiqueElections trending. The march in Zambézia province underscores the growing urgency among Mozambicans to demand transparency and fairness in the political process.
As the nation awaits the official announcement of results, all eyes are on Mozambique’s leaders and its people. The coming days will determine whether the country moves toward peace or further unrest.
The world watches as Mozambique stands at a critical juncture, with its citizens declaring they are ready to fight for their democracy—no matter the cost.