By : Lloyd Mahachi
Mozambique’s recent general elections have been tarnished by widespread ballot stuffing, according to the European Union’s chief election observer, Laura Ballarin. Her team witnessed this blatant electoral fraud in six provinces, with one province standing out as the worst offender. Poll workers were caught red-handed with piles of ballot papers, ready to fill them out for the ruling party, Frelimo, and then fold them together.
This is not the first time ballot stuffing has occurred in Mozambique’s elections, but this time it was brazen and out in the open. The EU observers also reported unlikely turnout figures, major results deviations between polling stations, and many cases of poll workers and civil servants found with ballot papers outside polling stations.
The elections, held on October 9, saw voters cast their ballots for a new president, provincial governors, and members of parliament. However, the process was tainted by reports of closed voting stations and blocked observers. The initial results indicate a voter boycott in many areas, with a dismal turnout of less than 25% in Zambezia and 30% in Nampula and Inhambane.
The governing party, Frelimo, has ruled Mozambique since its independence from Portugal in 1975. Daniel Chapo, the party’s candidate, is likely to succeed President Filipe Nyusi, who has served two terms. However, the legitimacy of the election is now in question due to the widespread electoral fraud.
Electoral irregularities reported include ballot stuffing, closed voting stations, low voter turnout, and unlikely turnout figures. The European Union has condemned the elections, stating that the results are “highly unlikely.” This development has cast a shadow over the legitimacy of Mozambique’s democratic process.
The international community is closely watching the situation, and many are calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations of electoral fraud. The people of Mozambique deserve free and fair elections, and it is essential that their voices are heard and respected.
The consequences of this electoral fraud are far-reaching, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold. One thing is certain, however: the legitimacy of Mozambique’s democratic process hangs in the balance.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
