Medical associations have reported the death of at least 10 people and 63 others injured by gunfire during protests following disputed election results in Mozambique.
Between Oct. 18 and 26, 73 shooting incidents were recorded, resulting in 10 deaths, according to a statement from the Medical Association of Mozambique and the Order of Doctors of Mozambique. Human Rights Watch, independently confirming 11 deaths and more than 50 serious injuries, noted that actual numbers might be higher since many injured did not report to hospitals.
Demonstrations per reports, started after Mozambique’s electoral commission declared the ruling party Frelimo the winner of the Oct. 9 election, extending its 49-year rule. Opposition groups and observers claimed the election was marred by fraud.
Daniel Chapo who is now Mozambique’s president notified opponents of his openness to dialogue last week amid the protests which have claimed many lives.
In response to the protests, police used teargas and live ammunition, which was described as a move to restore order amid violent protests by Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda.
Tensions remain high, especially after an opposition lawyer and official were killed just days after the vote. Opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane, who came in second but claims victory, has called for renewed protests starting Thursday. Residents in Maputo, anticipating more unrest, were seen stocking up on essentials on Wednesday.
