ADDIS ABABA, Dec 27 (NNN-AGENCIES) — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has called for a peaceful resolution to the escalating post-election violence in Mozambique
A wave of violence has spread across the country following the validation of the ruling party’s victory in October’s disputed election, resulting in the deaths of at least 89 people this week.
The death toll has reportedly risen to more than 200 since the unrest began on Oct. 21 with rioters looting shops and torching police stations, while more than 1,500 prisoners escaped from a maximum-security jail outside Maputo, the capital.
The AU regrets the unfolding events and is appealing for calm.
“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, continues to closely monitor the developments in Mozambique following the General Elections held on Oct 9, 2024” AUC chair said in a statement.
“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” the statement reads.
Additionally, 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 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”.
He further reaffirmed the AU’s commitment to collaborating with the Mozambican government, national stakeholders, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to end the violence and safeguard constitutional democracy. — NNN-AGENCIES
