Mozambique's main opposition leader, Venancio Mondlane, returned from exile Thursday, triggering a security response that included tear gas deployed against welcoming crowds at Maputo's international airport. The return, after months of protests following a disputed election, highlighted the tense political climate.
Mondlane, who departed the country in October, arrived at Mavalane International Airport. He cited fears for his safety, following the killings of two senior party members after the election.
Security forces blocked roads leading to the airport in anticipation of the large expected gathering. Tear gas was used to disperse the crowd, and a helicopter hovered overhead. This forceful response underscores the precariousness of the political situation.
The protests, spurred by Mondlane and other opposition candidates, accuse the ruling Frelimo party of election irregularities. International observers also reported anomalies in the vote count. Despite these claims, the Constitutional Council upheld the Frelimo victory in the October 9th election, paving the way for president-elect Daniel Chapo's inauguration next week.
Frelimo, in power for 50 years, has faced persistent accusations of electoral fraud, particularly since Mozambique's first democratic election in 1994. The recent demonstrations mark a significant challenge to their long-held dominance. More than 100 people have been killed in the unrest.
