By : Lloyd Mahachi

Mozambique’s President-elect, Daniel Chapo, was inaugurated as president in a ceremony held in the capital, Maputo, on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. The event marked the beginning of a new era in Mozambican politics.

Chapo succeeds Filipe Nyusi, who served the maximum two terms as president. Nyusi’s tenure was marked by significant economic growth, but also criticism for his handling of the opposition and human rights.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including foreign leaders and representatives of international organizations. However, the event was also marred by controversy, as opposition parties and civil society groups boycotted the ceremony, citing concerns over the legitimacy of the election.

The October election, which Chapo won with 65% of the vote, was widely criticized by opposition parties and international observers. The opposition claimed that the election was rigged and that the results were altered to favor the ruling Frelimo party.

International rights groups also raised concerns over the violence that marred the election, with reports of security forces firing live bullets at peaceful protesters. The groups estimated that over 100 people were killed, while local organizations put the death toll at over 200.

The Constitutional Council, however, upheld Frelimo’s victory, paving the way for Chapo’s inauguration. The ruling party has been in power since Mozambique gained independence from Portugal in 1975.

Frelimo’s rule has been marked by periods of violence and instability, including a brutal civil war that lasted from 1977 to 1992. The party has also been accused of rigging elections, including the 1994 democratic vote that followed the civil war.

The street protests that rocked several major cities since October were the biggest threat to Frelimo’s rule since the civil war. The protests were led by opposition parties and civil society groups, who demanded a recount of the election results and the resignation of the electoral commission.

Chapo’s inauguration marks a new chapter in Mozambican politics, but it also raises questions about the future of democracy and human rights in the country. As president, Chapo will face significant challenges, including addressing the economic and social grievances of the opposition and restoring trust in the electoral process.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi