Mozambique’s newly elected president, Daniel Chapo, was photographed confidently holding hands with his wife outside a government building just days after the contentious October 9 elections.

The youthful couple’s calm demeanour contrasted with the turbulent atmosphere engulfing the nation as post-election protests erupted, alleging widespread irregularities and electoral fraud.

Maputo elections were supposed to be a milestone in Mozambique’s democratic journey.

However, they have been marred by accusations of vote-rigging, suppression of opposition parties, and biased actions by the electoral commission.

Protesters have flooded the streets of major cities, including Maputo and Beira, demanding transparency and a rerun of the elections.

Opposition leaders claim the process was manipulated to secure Chapo’s victory for Frelimo, the ruling party that has dominated the country’s political landscape since independence in 1975.

The unrest shows long-standing grievances about Frelimo’s monopoly on power and allegations of its failure to address economic disparity and corruption.

Chapo, a relatively fresh face in Mozambique’s political elite, was seen as a unifying figure within Frelimo. Known for his charisma and strong ties to grassroots communities, his ascent to power was orchestrated by party heavyweights who sought to present a reformist image.

His campaign emphasized economic revitalization, infrastructure development, and peacebuilding in a country still reeling from years of armed conflict between government forces and Renamo insurgents.

Yet, critics argue that Chapo’s rhetoric of change rings hollow.

Analysts note that his rise to power followed the same playbook of patronage politics and opaque dealings that have characterized Frelimo’s dominance.

In the aftermath of the election results, protesters have faced heavy-handed crackdowns.

Reports of live ammunition being used to disperse crowds and arbitrary arrests have drawn condemnation from international human rights groups.

Protesters accuse the security forces of excessive force, with several incidents resulting in fatalities and injuries.

The government has defended its actions, claiming the protests are incited by “foreign-backed elements” seeking to destabilize the country.

Chapo himself has urged calm, stating that his administration will prioritize dialogue with opposition parties.

However, his calls for peace have been overshadowed by the ongoing unrest.

The international community has expressed concern over the situation.

The African Union has called for a thorough investigation into the allegations of electoral fraud, while the European Union has urged Mozambique to respect democratic principles and human rights.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC), a regional bloc currently under the chairmanship of Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, has been criticized for its muted response, which many see as a tacit endorsement of Frelimo’s rule.