By A Correspondent

In a significant move, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who also serves as the Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has publicly endorsed FRELIMO’s controversial victory in Mozambique’s recent elections. The endorsement came after the Constitutional Council of Mozambique upheld the results of the October 9th, 2024, elections, despite widespread claims of irregularities and allegations of electoral manipulation.

In a statement released on December 23, 2024, Mnangagwa emphasized that the ruling by Mozambique’s top electoral court was final and binding. He expressed SADC’s recognition of the ruling, which confirmed FRELIMO’s victory and marked the conclusion of all legal processes concerning the election results.

“The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) notes and acknowledges the ruling and confirmation on Monday, 23rd December, 2024, by the Constitutional Council of Election Results held in the Republic of Mozambique on 9th October this year,” Mnangagwa stated. “The ruling by that country’s top electoral court, which upheld FRELIMO Party’s victory, completes and thus exhausts all lawful processes on determining election results, in line with that country’s national laws, and in keeping with SADC’s Election Guidelines and expectations.”

Mnangagwa further called on all parties involved in the election process to respect the decision of the Constitutional Council, which he argued was crucial for ensuring peace and stability in Mozambique. “SADC thus expects all parties to the electoral process, both individually and collectively, to abide by the decision of the Council which should provide a constitutional way forward for the country, and facilitate the way to greater peace, normalcy and stability in the interest of all Mozambicans,” he added.

In his statement, Mnangagwa also reiterated SADC’s readiness to assist Mozambique’s incoming government in consolidating its democratic process. “SADC stands ready to assist the incoming Government, and People of Mozambique, in consolidating their electoral democracy on the basis of the aforesaid Court decision which should be held sacrosanct by all. Indeed, this is what the rule of law is all about,” Mnangagwa emphasized.

The endorsement by Mnangagwa comes amid growing international skepticism over the legitimacy of the election results. Despite the Constitutional Council’s decision, opposition parties in Mozambique have accused the ruling FRELIMO party of electoral fraud and voter intimidation. These allegations have fueled tensions and protests in various parts of the country.

Mnangagwa also took the opportunity to highlight the progress made in democratic processes across the Southern African region. “Our Region witnessed a record number of national elections in the last two years, itself a loud testimony that democracy continues to find deeper roots and to flourish in our SADC Region,” he stated.

Mnangagwa’s endorsement of FRELIMO’s victory has further polarized opinions within the region, with critics questioning the sincerity of SADC’s commitment to promoting free and fair elections. However, for now, the ruling stands, and Mozambique’s future political landscape will unfold under the watchful eye of both regional and international stakeholders.