Venâncio Mondlane Accuses Frelimo of Assassination Attempts in Mozambique

Former Mozambican presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane accuses the ruling Frelimo Party of multiple assassination attempts against him, including a recent incident where police fired on his motorcade. He claims over 400 of his supporters have been killed due to political intolerance. Mondlane describes his recent interrogation at the Attorney-General’s Office as intimidation without any charges pressed against him.

Venâncio Mondlane, a former presidential candidate in Mozambique, has reiterated his accusations against the ruling Frelimo Party, claiming they have made several attempts on his life. During an interview with the Centre for Public Integrity’s podcast, Mondlane reported five failed assassination attempts, with the latest occurring on March 5 when police opened fire on his entourage in Xiquelene, Maputo. While police asserted they aimed to disperse crowds of his supporters, Mondlane believes he was the specific target.

Mondlane has stated, “Frelimo is very interested in getting rid of me,” noting that their public presence has diminished due to fear of low attendance. He emphasized the serious nature of the attack on March 5, asserting, “They were real bullets, murderous bullets,” with his cameraman suffering injuries from the assault. Mondlane attributes the deaths of over 400 of his supporters to intense political intolerance and authoritarian tactics orchestrated by Frelimo.

Mondlane also expressed concerns regarding his recent interrogation at the Attorney-General’s Office, interpreting it as an intimidation tactic, particularly since he was not informed of any charges against him. He exited the PGR without any legal repercussions. During the same time, his treasurer, Gloria Nobre, was reportedly detained, while his spokesperson, Denis Tivane, received a summons from the Central Office for the Fight against Organised Crime, indicating ongoing legal pressures against his associates.

In summary, Mondlane’s allegations against the Frelimo Party highlight a troubling narrative of political violence and intimidation in Mozambique. Despite facing repeated assassination attempts and the intimidation of his inner circle, he continues to speak out against what he perceives as dictatorial practices by the ruling party. The implications of these events raise critical questions concerning political freedom and safety in the nation.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com