Human Rights Watch reported that at least 10 children were killed by Mozambican security forces amid protests following the October 9 elections won by the Frelimo party. Thousands protested against alleged electoral misconduct, resulting in a brutal crackdown by police. President Filipe Nyusi condemned the unrest while inviting opposition leaders for talks, amidst a significantly higher estimated death toll reported by civil society groups.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported that Mozambican security forces were responsible for the deaths of at least 10 children and injuries to many others amidst the ongoing post-election violence. The unrest escalated following the elections on October 9, in which the ruling Frelimo party retained power amid widespread protests fueled by allegations of electoral improprieties. Among the tragic incidents highlighted, a 13-year-old girl was fatally wounded by a bullet while fleeing from police actions that included the use of tear gas and live ammunition.
In total, HRW has documented at least nine other child fatalities attributable to gunfire during these protests, further emphasizing the grave implications of the unrest on the youth of the nation. Reports indicate that hundreds of children have faced detainment without family notification, a clear violation of international human rights regulations. In response to these events, Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi condemned what he described as an ‘attempt to install chaos’ in the country, detailing in his address that the recent clashes claimed the lives of 19 individuals, including five police officers, and resulted in over 800 injuries, 66 of which were among law enforcement personnel.
It is worth noting that civil society organizations have reported an even higher death toll, estimating more than 67 fatalities since the onset of civil unrest. The president has extended an invitation to Venancio Mondlane, the main opposition leader, for discussions to address these tensions. While Mondlane has indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue, he urges that these discussions occur virtually and that any legal actions against him be dismissed. There are concerns for his safety, as Mondlane has reportedly left the country amid fears of potential arrest or violence.
The recent conflict in Mozambique marks a significant period of violence stemming from political discontent following elections held on October 9, wherein the ruling Frelimo party, which has been in power since independence, faced substantial opposition. The ongoing protests against Frelimo’s alleged electoral misconduct have led to severe crackdowns by security forces. This violent unrest has particularly affected children, with HRW highlighting tragic instances where youths have been both killed and injured. The broader context includes President Filipe Nyusi’s attempt to mitigate chaos while inviting opposition leaders to engage in dialogue, amid accusations of human rights breaches by the police.
The situation in Mozambique remains critical as reported fatalities and injuries continue to mount amidst escalating protests following the recent elections. The tragic losses suffered by children underscore the grave human cost of political unrest. With President Nyusi’s government facing international scrutiny for its handling of these demonstrations, the invitation extended to opposition leaders for dialogue may represent a crucial opportunity to deescalate tensions. It remains to be seen whether meaningful discussions can be achieved in a climate marked by fear and violence.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
