Mozambique Opposition Leader Mondlane Detained and Questioned Without Charges, Claims Political Persecution
Venancio Mondlane, Mozambique’s prominent opposition figure, revealed on Tuesday that he was subjected to a 10-hour interrogation by prosecutors without being informed of the nature of the investigation.
Speaking to reporters in the capital, Maputo, Mondlane expressed frustration over the lack of clarity regarding the accusations against him.
The former TV commentator, who declared victory in the contested October election, also disclosed that he had been placed under judicial supervision, severely restricting his movements.
“Unfortunately, I spent all those hours in questioning without knowing the charges against me,” Mondlane told the press. “I am now under judicial supervision, which means I cannot leave my house for more than five days without notifying the prosecutor’s office. This is a violation of my rights.”
The October presidential election, which was marred by allegations of irregularities and fraud, led to over two months of protests and blockades across the country, during which more than 300 people lost their lives.
While the official results handed President Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party a landslide victory with 65 percent of the vote, Mondlane, who received 24 percent, continues to insist that he won the election with 53 percent of the vote.
During the interrogation, Mondlane stated that the questions were mainly focused on the recent protests, allegations of inciting violence, and the economic damage caused by the unrest.
He also revealed that his supporters, who had gathered outside the building to express solidarity, were dispersed by police using tear gas. Local reports further detailed that the previous week, police had opened fire on a march by Mondlane’s supporters, injuring at least 14 people, according to civil society group Plataforma Decide.
In a move that further deepened political tensions, Mondlane recently split from the Podemos party, which had initially backed his candidacy. He has since founded a new political party, the National Alliance for an Autonomous and Free Mozambique (Anamalala), named after one of the slogans from the protest movement. The name “Anamalala” translates to “it’s over” in the Macau language, symbolizing the sentiments of many who feel the political system is in need of reform.
Despite the official outcome of the election, Mondlane’s claims of victory have gained significant traction, and his new party is seen as a serious challenge to Frelimo’s decades-long dominance.
In what many analysts consider Mozambique’s first real political contest in half a century, Mondlane is rallying widespread support, demanding a more transparent and accountable government.
The ongoing legal and political struggles surrounding Mondlane highlight the rising tensions in Mozambique’s volatile political landscape, where accusations of electoral fraud and governmental repression continue to fuel widespread discontent.
