The Tactics Institute for Security and Counter-Terrorism strongly condemns the escalating violence against civilians in Mozambique. Anti-government protesters and security forces fought across Mozambique, with police killing people. This move could have devastating outcomes for the whole African region.

Public anger has surged after last month’s debated election results, which sparked objections from opposition supporters. Police shots killed three people on 27 November 2024 in the city of Nampula. Half a dozen other people were wounded. The main roads connecting Nampula to other provinces were blocked.

Presidential nominee Venâncio Mondlane has called for protests, which have degenerated into clashes with the police, who have resorted to firing tear gas and gunfire to dissipate the protests as a way of challenging the awarding of victory by the National Elections Commission (CNE) to Frelimo nominee Daniel Chapo with 70.67% of the vote, a result yet to be validated and affirmed by the Constitutional Council.

Venâncio Mondlane is contesting what they state is a fraudulent victory by Frelimo, the party that has ruled Mozambique since 1975. The election result witnessed Frelimo extend its five-decade rule with its nominee, Daniel Chapo, following President Filipe Nyusi to become Mozambique’s fifth president since its freedom from Portugal.

The Tactics Institute calls on the government of Mozambique to uphold the role of security forces to protect the people of Mozambique. We urge the United Nations, the European Union, and allied countries, to condemn this measure. We also call on the African Union to review the situation and role of security forces to protect the people of Mozambique and to conduct an inquiry into this incident and the other reports of disproportionate use of force to ensure accountability and follow the law.