Mozambique president sworn in amid election dispute

January 15, 2025
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Daniel Chapo (R) takes oath of office to be sworn in as the President of Mozambique during his inauguration at Independence Square in Maputo on January 15, 2025. © Phill Magakoe, AFP

Mozambique’s new president takes office as opposition threatens nationwide protests over contested October election results.

President Chapo took the oath of office in Maputo today amid rising tensions, extending his Frelimo party’s five-decade rule of the gas-rich nation. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has rejected the election results and vowed to “paralyse” the government with daily demonstrations.

International observers reported significant irregularities in the October 9 election, with the European Union mission condemning “unjustified alteration of election results.” Official results showed Chapo winning 65 percent of the vote compared to Mondlane’s 24 percent.

Security forces blocked roads throughout Maputo and around Independence Square during the ceremony. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa attended, though the limited presence of foreign heads of state sparked concern among analysts.

“Even from a regional point of view, there is a hesitancy to acknowledge or recognize that Chapo won the election,” said Johann Smith, a Maputo-based political and security risk analyst.

Mondlane, who recently returned from hiding following his lawyer’s assassination, has demanded talks with the new administration. “I’m here in the flesh to say that if you want to negotiate… I’m here,” he said in a statement.

Civil society group Plataforma Decide reports over 300 deaths in post-election unrest, with security forces accused of using excessive force against demonstrators. Police casualties have also been reported by authorities.

Chapo, 48, pledged during his inauguration “to devote all my energies to defending, promoting and consolidating national unity, human rights, democracy and the well-being of the Mozambican people.”

The new president is expected to announce his government this week. Analysts suggest he may offer opposition members ministerial positions to ease tensions.

Frelimo secured 171 seats in the 250-seat national assembly, while Mondlane’s Podemos party won 43 seats. The ruling party has governed Mozambique since independence from Portugal in 1975.

Streets in Maputo remained largely deserted during Monday’s parliamentary inauguration, with most shops closed either in protest or fear of violence.