By : Lloyd Mahachi
Preliminary results from Mozambique’s general election show the ruling party, Frelimo, leading in all 11 provinces, positioning its candidate, Daniel Chapo, to become the country’s next president. However, election observers have raised concerns about the poll’s integrity, citing issues such as disorganized counting, poorly sealed ballot boxes, vote buying, inflated voter rolls, and intimidation in some areas.

Frelimo’s dominance over state institutions provides an unfair advantage, allowing it to manipulate laws and policies to its benefit. The party has been accused of rigging elections since Mozambique gained independence from Portugal in 1975. These concerns are not unfounded, and the current election has been plagued by numerous irregularities.

Election observers have reported disorganized counting, with poll workers often unprepared, leading to delays and confusion. Ballot boxes were poorly sealed, raising concerns about potential tampering with votes. There were also reports of vote buying, with voters being paid to cast their ballots for specific candidates. Inflated voter rolls were another issue, with the number of registered voters exceeding the estimated electoral population in several provinces. Intimidation was also reported, with voters and observers facing hostility in some areas.

Opposition parties have cried foul, with some calling for a nationwide strike on Monday and others vowing to challenge the results in court. The opposition has struggled to gain traction, with Frelimo’s control over state resources and media outlets limiting their ability to campaign effectively.

The International Republican Institute (IRI) has released a preliminary statement on the election, highlighting concerns about the electoral process. The IRI urges the National Elections Commission (CNE) to conduct a fair, transparent, and timely count of the results to ensure the will of the people is respected.

Final results are expected on October 24. The international community will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds, amidst fears that the election may not reflect the true will of the Mozambican people. The credibility of the electoral process hangs in the balance, and it remains to be seen whether the concerns of observers and opposition parties will be addressed.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi