Mozambique’s Violent Crackdown: Revealing the Dark Side of Policing

Mozambique: Police Fire on Protesters, At Least 3 Killed in Post Municipal Election Demonstrations

Background

In the wake of the recent municipal elections in Mozambique, violent clashes have erupted between security forces and peaceful protesters. According to Human Rights Watch, Mozambican security forces have used excessive force, including live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas, resulting in the deaths of at least three people, including a 10-year-old boy. The main opposition party, Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO), called for nationwide demonstrations after the Election Commission announced that the ruling Liberation Front of Mozambique (FRELIMO) had won in 64 of the country’s 65 municipalities. The protests were sparked by court decisions that found irregularities in the voting process on October 11.

The Violent Crackdown

On October 27, thousands of opposition members and supporters gathered in Maputo, the capital, to march to the Constitutional Council and demand that it not validate the election results. However, the police blocked their route and ordered the demonstrators to disperse, firing tear gas into the crowd and shooting in the air without warning. The use of excessive force by the police escalated the situation, leading to clashes between smaller groups of protesters and the security forces. Similar violent incidents were reported in the northern province of Nampula, where police used live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas against demonstrators.

Response and Accountability

Human Rights Watch has called on the authorities to promptly investigate the use of lethal force, prosecute those responsible for wrongdoing, and take steps to prevent further bloodshed, including training the police on managing protests. However, the police spokespersons in both Maputo and Nampula, while acknowledging the incidents, have yet to provide further details.

International Standards

The United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials state that security forces should use the minimum necessary force and firearms only as a last resort to protect life. The use of tear gas should be limited to situations where it is necessary to prevent physical harm, and warnings should be given before deploying tear gas to disperse nonviolent protests. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights emphasizes that the use of force should be exceptional, proportionate, and necessary.

Editorial and Analysis

The post-election violence in Mozambique highlights a disturbing pattern of security forces resorting to excessive force to silence opposition voices rather than exercising restraint. This cracks down on basic human rights, including the right to freedom of assembly and expression, as well as the right to fair and transparent elections.

The authorities in Mozambique must be held accountable for the excessive use of force by security forces. It is imperative that a thorough and independent investigation be conducted to determine the specific individuals responsible for the violence and ensure that they are held accountable. Furthermore, steps must be taken to address the systemic issues within the police force and provide them with proper training on managing protests and maintaining public order without resorting to violence.

Advice

Mozambique‘s regional and international partners have a critical role to play in ensuring that the government takes the necessary steps to prevent future violations and promote accountability. These partners should pressure the Mozambican government to address the issues of police brutality and corruption within the security forces. Additionally, support should be provided to civil society organizations advocating for human rights and social justice in Mozambique.

It is also essential for Mozambican society as a whole to remain vigilant and active in promoting peaceful activism and advocating for their rights. The recent violence should serve as a wake-up call for Mozambicans to come together, stand up against injustice, and demand meaningful change in their country. Only through collective action can they hope to build a society that respects human rights and values the voices of its citizens.

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