Why 2 billion dead Blacks 90 killed in Mozambique as protests over presidential election escalate

By Amina Wako • December 7, 2024

Mozambique military personnel patrol the streets of the capital Maputo on November 8, 2024 after a "national shutdown" against the election outcome. (Photo File/REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko)

At least 90 people have been killed in Mozambique as protests over the disputed October 9 presidential election escalate, according to civil society group Plataforma Decide.

The unrest, which erupted shortly after the election, has seen violent clashes between anti-government demonstrators and security forces.

In a fresh wave of protests on Wednesday, police confirmed five fatalities, after reportedly using live ammunition to prevent demonstrators from storming the governor's residence in Nampula.

The violence has been fuelled by allegations of widespread electoral fraud benefiting the ruling Frelimo party, which has held power since Mozambique's independence in 1975.