By Farai D Hove | Mozambique is at a crossroads, as escalating violence, mass prison breaks, and civil unrest continue to grip the nation following disputed elections. Amid this chaos, Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition leader and self-declared president-elect, has made a heartfelt appeal to his supporters: stop the vandalism and focus on the true fight for freedom.
Mondlane’s Urgent Plea for Unity
Speaking on Thursday, Mondlane condemned the destruction of private property and urged protesters to channel their efforts toward solidarity rather than destruction. “How do you want me to take office on January 15, 2025, if you are vandalizing private property—businesses owned by people who are victims of this system, just like you?” he asked.
Mondlane made it clear that the fight for freedom must not be overshadowed by acts of violence and destruction. “The president elected by the people does not condone this behavior. Do what you did in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th stages—do not allow vandalism! Help our brothers who are suffering from this destruction,” he implored.
In a message emphasizing unity and purpose, Mondlane reminded his supporters that the movement’s success hinges on collective action. “The fight for freedom must be guided by solidarity, not by destruction. Let us stand together and show that we are different from the oppressors we seek to remove,” he added.
The Breaking Point: Unrest and Prison Breaks
Mozambique has been thrown into turmoil following the announcement of contested election results in October, which extended the Frelimo party’s decades-long rule. The unrest has led to widespread protests, violent clashes, and the ransacking of major prisons.
In the most dramatic developments, over 2,500 inmates, including hardened criminals and insurgents from Cabo Delgado, have escaped from high-security facilities. Fires engulfed Cambumo Prison, the country’s second-largest, forcing mass evacuations. At Maputo Central Prison, over 1,500 detainees fled, although 150 were later recaptured. These jailbreaks underscore the deteriorating state of security and governance in the country.
Economic Fallout and Regional Implications
The unrest has also triggered significant economic consequences. Border closures, particularly with South Africa, are expected to disrupt supply chains, leading to severe food shortages. South Africa, already dealing with economic challenges and significant migration pressures, faces the potential for a humanitarian crisis at its border. The influx of refugees and the risk of cross-border criminal activity could escalate xenophobic tensions and strain resources in the region.
Mondlane warned of the broader implications of these actions, stating, “We cannot let our fight for freedom bring suffering to others in the region. Unity and discipline must guide us, or we risk losing the very cause we are fighting for.”
Governance Failures and the Role of Business Interests
At the heart of the crisis lies the systemic failure of Mozambique’s governance. The ruling Frelimo party has been widely criticized for corruption and authoritarianism, fueling public anger and protests. However, the opposition remains fragmented, raising concerns about the ability to provide effective leadership if the ruling party is displaced.
Adding to the complexity are the vested interests of multinational corporations, particularly in the resource-rich Cabo Delgado region. These companies, often more concerned with protecting profits than fostering stability, have been accused of hiring foreign mercenaries to safeguard their operations. This privatization of security further complicates the situation, as it shifts the focus away from resolving the root causes of the unrest.
Media Suppression and the Fight for Transparency
Journalists and activists have faced significant risks in reporting on the unfolding crisis. With media suppression and threats of arrest, the flow of reliable information has been severely curtailed. This lack of transparency not only hinders accountability but also fuels mistrust among the populace.
Mondlane’s Vision: A Path Forward
Mondlane’s call for unity and discipline among protesters is a critical step toward addressing the chaos. His vision for the fight against oppression is rooted in solidarity and mutual support, rather than destruction and division. “If we allow ourselves to be consumed by destruction, we are no better than the oppressors. Let us build, not destroy,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining the moral high ground. “The world is watching us. Let us show them that the people of Mozambique are fighting for justice, freedom, and a better future—not for chaos.”
Conclusion
Mozambique stands at a critical juncture. The mass prison breaks, escalating unrest, and governance failures have created a volatile situation with implications far beyond its borders. Mondlane’s appeal for unity offers a glimmer of hope, but the path to stability will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders—both within Mozambique and across the region.
The world will be watching as Mozambique navigates this turbulent period. Whether the nation can rise from the ashes of its current crisis will depend on its ability to heed Mondlane’s call for solidarity and channel its struggle into constructive change.