Maputo, 24 Oct (AIM) – The High Commission of Canada, the Embassy of Norway and the Embassy of Switzerland in Mozambique have expressed their concern about the irregularities detected in the municipal elections held on 11 October, notably on voting day and during the count.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the three diplomatic missions state that they “are closely following the electoral process and join members of the international community and civil society organizations in Mozambique in voicing concern about reported election irregularities”.
The embassies call on all parties to work through the appropriate complaints procedure within the Mozambican legal system to ensure confidence in the integrity of the democratic process and to address reports of irregularities.
“We urge all parties to make continued efforts to uphold human rights, and the rule of law, and for the Electoral Management Bodies to ensure a transparent and fair election process. As a cornerstone of democracy, it is essential that elections are held in a peaceful, transparent and orderly manner”, reads the document.
The main opposition parties, Renamo and the Mozambique Democratic Movement (MDM), have rejected the preliminary results of the municipal elections, according to which the ruling Frelimo party won in 64 of the 65 municipalities, losing only Beira to the MDM.
Parallel vote counts by observers indicate that in reality Renamo won in several major cities, including Maputo, Matola and Quelimane.
Courts have annulled the results in several municipalities, and ordered a recount in Matola.
(AIM)
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