Maputo, 17 Nov (AIM) – The United Nations has called on the Mozambican government “to put an immediate end to the violence and repression of journalists, lawyers, human rights defenders and protesters”, during demonstrations called by presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane to protest against the allegedly fraudulent results of the 9 October general elections.
According to a document, signed by 13 human rights special rapporteurs, which was published on Friday on the website of the UN Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights, there are consistent reports suggesting that the violence in Mozambique has caused at least 30 deaths and injured 200 people “and therefore the authorities must promptly and impartially investigate all unlawful killings.”
“There are disturbing reports of excessive police force and the authorities must ensure that those responsible for the violence are investigated and prosecuted. The violations of the right to life, including that of a child, the deliberate killings of unarmed demonstrators and the excessive use of force by police deployed to disperse peaceful protests in Mozambique are very disturbing”, reads the note.
In order to end violence, the UN calls on the government to take measures and “guarantee an environment in which all Mozambicans, including women and girls, can participate fully and equally in political processes and express themselves without fear.”
“Law enforcement officials have a duty to respect and protect those exercising the right to peaceful assembly, but they must remain neutral and impartial during any protest, protecting the right to life, liberty and security”, reads the document.
Human rights experts warned that “enforced disappearance in the context of electoral violence has a lasting impact on the democratic fabric of states.”
The UN also condemned the intimidation and harassment against journalists, as well as the internet cut and mobile network service blockages, claiming that “there is need to facilitate access to information for all.”
(AIM)
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