MAPUTO, Mozambique – Presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane returned to Mozambique yesterday, landing at Maputo’s Mavalane International Airport at approximately 8 a.m., as promised, where he was met with clashes, tear gas, and the firing of live ammunition by the Police of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM). The arrival of Mondlane, who had been out of the country for two months, was marked by strong statements and significant public mobilisation.
From early morning, police forces surrounded the airport. Thousands of supporters gathered to welcome him,despite heavy rain, but even before his arrival, the PRM deployed tear gas to disperse the unarmed crowd, leading to on-site clashes.
Mondlane, in statements to the press, outlined three key objectives for his return. First, he aimed to refute claims that his absence indicated an avoidance of political dialogue. “Now, if you want to negotiate with me, you can call me to the table,” he stated. Second, Mondlane said he intends to bring attention to what he called the silent elimination of his supporters. “People who support me are being executed,” he revealed, adding that he would visit sites of mass graves to defend victims of violence. Finally, he emphasised his commitment to be present alongside the people at all times,”I will fight to the last consequences. I didn’t enter this struggle to obtain material or financial benefits, but for the Mozambican people.”
Asked about his relationship with the PODEMOS party, Mondlane stated that there are no internal problems. “I have no problem with PODEMOS. I’m still firmly in the party,” he said.
The most significant moment of Mondlane’s arrival was his self-proclamation as the new President of the Republic of Mozambique. Before thousands of supporters and the press, he took a public oath:
“I, Venâncio Mondlane, President elected by the Mozambican people, not by the CNE, but by the genuine will of the people, swear on my honour to serve the Mozambican homeland and Mozambicans. I will respect the Constitution and the laws, and I will devote all my energies to transforming this nation into one of the greatest in the world.”
Following Mondlane’s arrival, demonstrations of support filled the city of Maputo. Thousands of people took to the streets to show their solidarity with the leader. However, the political landscape remains divided. While Mondlane claims to have popular support, Daniel Chapo, the FRELIMO candidate, was declared the winner of the elections by the Constitutional Council and possesses the institutional and political resources to govern.
The political polarisation raises a critical question: “Where will Venâncio Mondlane govern and who will be governed by Daniel Chapo?”
