The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat, has issued a heartfelt plea for peace amid escalating violence in Mozambique following the country’s disputed general election. This turmoil, which erupted after the Constitutional Council validated the ruling party’s victory in October 2024, has claimed over 200 lives, with a recent surge in violence leading to the deaths of at least 89 people this week.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the AUC Chairperson expressed deep concern over the crisis, offering condolences to the bereaved families while urging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and restraint.
“The Chairperson expresses deep concern at the ongoing violence, particularly following the pronouncement of the final election results by the Constitutional Council, which resulted in scores of people losing their lives. The Chairperson expresses sincere condolences to the bereaved and calls for calm,” read the statement.
Widespread Unrest and Chaos
The unrest, which began on October 21, has seen rioters engage in widespread looting, torching police stations, and causing mayhem across major cities, including the capital, Maputo. Compounding the chaos, over 1,500 inmates escaped from a maximum-security prison in Maputo, raising security concerns nationwide.
The violence has also caused extensive property damage, with businesses being targeted and public infrastructure destroyed. Observers note that the political crisis has exacerbated existing economic and social grievances, further fueling public anger.
AUC’s Call for Restraint
Moussa Faki Mahamat has appealed to Mozambique’s security forces to exercise restraint and prioritize the safety of civilians as they work to restore order.
“The Chairperson is reaching out to security services to exercise restraint in the use of force in the midst of the violence and maintenance of law and order,” the statement added.
While law enforcement agencies face the daunting task of containing the unrest, concerns have been raised over the use of excessive force, with reports of human rights abuses surfacing.
Urging Dialogue and Cooperation
The AUC Chairperson has emphasized the importance of dialogue as a pathway to peace. He urged the Mozambican government, political leaders, and civil society groups to work together in addressing the root causes of the unrest and finding a sustainable resolution to the crisis.
“The Chairperson further urges the Government and all the national political and social actors to seek a peaceful solution to resolving the current crisis to avoid further loss of life and destruction of property,” the statement noted.
The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with Mozambique and regional partners, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC), to safeguard constitutional democracy and restore stability.
Regional and International Attention
The escalating violence in Mozambique has drawn regional and international attention, with stakeholders expressing concern over the potential spillover effects on neighboring countries. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has also been called upon to play a proactive role in mediating the crisis.
Mozambique’s history of political tensions, coupled with socioeconomic challenges, underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the crisis. Analysts argue that while immediate security measures are necessary, long-term solutions must focus on promoting inclusivity, transparency, and trust in the country’s democratic institutions.
The Path Forward
As Mozambique grapples with this challenging period, the African Union’s call for restraint, dialogue, and collaboration serves as a critical reminder of the value of peace and unity in the face of adversity. The coming weeks will likely be pivotal in determining whether the country can overcome its divisions and chart a course toward stability and reconciliation.
For now, all eyes remain on Mozambique, its leaders, and its people as they navigate a crisis that has deeply shaken the nation’s democratic foundations.
