Political Turmoil and Opposition Dynamics in Mozambique

On Wednesday, opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane returned to Mozambique after a two month self-imposed exile.

He was greeted by thousands of his supporters at the main airport in the capital Maputo. Video shared on social media shows him kneeling with a hand on a bible declaring himself president-elect of Mozambique.

This latest twist in the country’s post-election drama comes amidst heightened tensions and tight security.

Deadly protests kicked off soon after the October 2024 elections which the country’s opposition have described as rigged in favour of Frelimo, a party which has governed since independence in 1975.

Hundreds of people have been killed, property damaged and shops looted.

In today’s Africa Daily Victoria Uwonkunda looks at the protests and what Venâncio Mondlane’s return means for Mozambique.