BRUSSELS – Today, Socialist MEP Francisco Assis urged the European Commission to ensure the safety of Venâncio Mondelane and called on the European Parliament (EP) to take a stand against the “gross violations” of human rights occurring in Mozambique. He stated, “The international community must not overlook what is unfolding in Mozambique. The EP has a responsibility to condemn the actions of the Mozambican authorities,” in a post on Instagram.
Assis indicated that he would request an urgent debate regarding the situation there. He highlighted the severe human rights violations amid police crackdowns on demonstrators and urged the European Commission to “do everything possible to protect the physical integrity of Venâncio Mondelane.”
According to a source close to the presidential candidate, Venâncio Mondlane is currently safe in Maputo, following an incident this morning where police used gunfire and tear gas to disperse a crowd gathered to hear him speak. The source confirmed, “He is safe and remains in Maputo. He is doing well.”
During his speech at the Estrela Market around 10:00 AM local time (two hours behind Lisbon), Mondlane reiterated his intentions to pursue the restoration of electoral integrity, claiming he is the rightful winner of the general elections held on October 9. Following his remarks, and while addressing supporters from atop a sound truck during a symbolic swearing-in ceremony, police began firing shots and deploying tear gas, leading to chaos as a police charge prompted people to flee shortly after Mondlane called for demobilization.
According to the latest report from the non-governmental organization Platform Decide, nearly 300 individuals have lost their lives, and over 600 have sustained gunshot wounds since protests erupted post-election. (09/01/25)
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