By 9jaeye 
Mozambique’s ruling party, FRELIMO, is leading in provisional results of the 2024 presidential elections, sparking significant controversy as opposition parties raise allegations of electoral fraud. According to provisional reports released on October 16, 2024, FRELIMO’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, is leading in all 11 provinces. This election marks yet another contentious chapter in Mozambique’s political landscape, as opposition parties claim widespread irregularities during the voting process.
The opposition, led by RENAMO and the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), has strongly contested the initial results, alleging vote rigging and manipulation by the ruling party. Independent candidate Venâncio Mondlane, who represents PODEMOS, has gone as far as declaring himself the rightful winner. FRELIMO leads Mozambique’s 2024 election, while the opposition claims fraud and threatens to organize protests against the provisional results.
Claims of Electoral Fraud
Opposition parties, particularly RENAMO and MDM, have accused FRELIMO of engaging in electoral malpractices, including ballot stuffing, voter suppression, and barring election observers from polling stations. According to observers, over 200 polling stations denied access to both journalists and independent monitors during the vote-counting process, raising serious doubts about the credibility of the election results. Sala da Paz, an election watchdog group, reported multiple irregularities, such as unsealed ballot boxes and voter intimidation.
Despite these allegations, FRELIMO’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, maintains a significant lead in the provisional results. The ruling party has dismissed the opposition’s claims as unfounded and insists that the election process was transparent. However, opposition leader Ossufo Momade of RENAMO has vowed to challenge the results in court and has called for mass protests to demand a fair recount.
Next Steps and Rising Tensions
Election results are due on October 24, 2024, but Mozambique’s political atmosphere remains tense. As opposition parties reject the provisional results, tensions rise, and unrest may grow unless leaders quickly find a resolution. Both local and international observers are closely watching how the election commission handles the opposition’s grievances.
This election could set the tone for Mozambique’s future political landscape, with rising tensions potentially leading to prolonged disputes and social instability. For now, FRELIMO remains on top, but the fight for electoral justice in Mozambique is far from over.
For more of interesting stories and Breaking News, check 9ja Eye News categories.