At least 10 people have died and 63 have been injured by gunfire in Mozambique amid protests over disputed election results, according to reports from medical associations. Protests erupted after the electoral commission declared the ruling party Frelimo, in power for 49 years, the winner of the October 9 election. Opposition groups and observers alleged widespread electoral fraud.
In response to the unrest, police deployed teargas and live ammunition. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda stated that security forces were acting to restore order in the face of violent demonstrations. Between October 18 and 26, there were 73 recorded shooting incidents resulting in 10 fatalities, as noted by the Medical Association of Mozambique and the Order of Doctors of Mozambique. Human Rights Watch, which independently confirmed 11 deaths and over 50 serious injuries, suggested the actual toll could be higher, as many injured individuals did not seek hospital care.
Tensions remain high, especially following the killings of an opposition lawyer and official just days after the vote. Opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane, who placed second but claims victory, has called for further protests starting Thursday. In anticipation of renewed unrest, residents in Maputo were seen stocking up on essential supplies on Wednesday.