Mozambique Opposition Leader Venâncio Mondlane Announces Return from Exile

Venâncio Mondlane, the opposition leader of Mozambique, who has been calling for protests from exile in recent weeks, has declared his intention to return to the country on Thursday. His arrival is timed just ahead of the inauguration of the newly elected president next week. Daniel Chapo, from the ruling Frelimo party, is set to take the oath of office on Wednesday after a court upheld his victory in the presidential election.

Mondlane, who came in second in the election, has rejected the court’s ruling and has been at the forefront of organizing protests that have escalated into violent clashes, resulting in dozens of deaths since October. After two of his aides were killed in the same month, Mondlane fled the country, citing security concerns.

In a defiant Facebook live address on Sunday, Mondlane vowed to return to Maputo, stating, “They don’t need to chase me anymore.” He confirmed that he would land at Maputo International Airport at 08:05 local time (06:05 GMT) on Thursday, urging supporters to welcome him. “If they are killing my brothers, I will be there. You can do what you want. If you want to murder, murder. If you want to arrest, arrest too. I will be there,” he said.

Mondlane continues to assert that he won the election and has called for further protests until what he calls “electoral truth” is realized. His supporters have organized frequent and violent demonstrations across the country, demanding an end to the 49-year rule of the Frelimo party. Mondlane previously announced plans to declare himself president on January 15—the day of the official inauguration—even though the court has confirmed Chapo’s victory.

The electoral commission initially declared Chapo the winner with 71% of the vote, while Mondlane received 20%. However, the final official results from the constitutional court, released two weeks ago, showed Chapo with 65% and Mondlane with 24%. International election observers have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the vote, citing discrepancies and irregularities in the counting process.

The ongoing protests have led to a violent crackdown by security forces, testing the stability of the country. Over 270 people have been killed, including both protesters and members of the security forces, according to human rights groups. The unrest has also had a detrimental effect on the economy, with over 12,000 people losing their jobs and more than 500 businesses vandalized.

The political unrest has not only affected Mozambique but also spilled over to neighboring countries, with thousands of Mozambicans fleeing across the border. Outgoing President Filipe Nyusi has called for dialogue to resolve the conflict, while Chapo, on December 27, urged for “non-violence” and “unity.”