Maputo, 3 Jan (AIM) – The channels of communication of Mozambique’s self-exiled presidential candidate, Venancio Mondlane, have been abruptly cut off.
His live broadcast scheduled for Thursday night did not happen. In that broadcast he was about to announce new measures of protest which he described as his “spearhead”.
But the spear seems to have been blunted. Instead of a live broadcast, Mondlane had to send a brief facebook message to his supporters. The message said “We had the commitment of sharing with you a crucial moment in the struggle for a better Mozambique”, but “for technical and other unforeseen reasons, we are obliged to postpone the programmed broadcast”.
Mondlane has never told his followers where he is – but he is believed to be hiding somewhere in Europe. Presumably, the authorities in whatever county he is using have pulled the plug on him, and no longer wish their airwaves to be used for incitement to rioting.
“We understand the great expectation and importance of this statement for each of you”, said Mondlane’s message. “We ask for your understanding”.
“We promise that we will shortly return with the strength and determination that drive us”, it added. “Our commitment to the truth and to the salvation of Mozambique remains more alive than ever. The struggle belongs to all of us, and it will be the people’s victory”.
The message, which repeatedly called Mondlane “President”, put a brave face on the harsh fact that Mondlane can no longer speak directly to his followers. He is no longer able to demand that roads be blocked and barricades be erected. The potential for further rioting is thus considerably reduced.
Mondlane’s communications were cut within hours of the Constitutional Council, the country’s highest body in matters of electoral law, announcing that the new President will be sworn into office on 15 January.
Mondlane had repeatedly assured his followers that he would be that new President. In reality, the man who will take office is the General Secretary of the ruling Frelimo Party, Daniel Chapo.
Opposition parties have unanimously described Chapo’s election as fraudulent, and so it would not be surprising if they boycotted the investiture.
All the parties that won seats in the October parliamentary election (Podemos, Renamo and the Mozambique Democratic Movement, MDM) will take them, ignoring calls for a boycott from hardliners loyal to Mondlane.
(AIM)
Pf/ (396)
