Mozambique’s ruling party calls for calm after deadly protests
The ruling Frelimo party in Mozambique has called for calm following violent protests over the disputed presidential election last month.
Following opposition leader Venancio Mondlane’s refusal to accept the results, protests erupted, with Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo declared the winner.
In Maputo, a rally was held where Frelimo supporters rallied behind Chapo and urged an end to the protests. Antonio Niquisse, a party spokesman, referred to the event as “a peaceful march” and criticized the protests.
The protests saw clashes with security forces which left dozens dead.
Rights groups have accused authorities of using excessive force, with reports of live ammunition fired at protesters. Human Rights Watch has called on the government to respect the right to peaceful demonstrations.
