Written By Lisa Murimi
Venâncio Mondlane, Mozambique’s opposition leader, returned to Maputo on Thursday after months in exile following the disputed October presidential election that sparked nationwide protests and deadly clashes.
Thousands of supporters gathered at the airport to welcome him despite heavy police presence and heightened security.
Emerging from the airport, Mondlane knelt on the tarmac with a Bible, declaring himself the rightful president “elected by the people, not by a court.”
In a defiant speech, he expressed readiness for dialogue to resolve tensions but maintained his position that the election, which officially declared ruling Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo the winner, was fraudulent.
Mondlane’s return comes days before Chapo’s inauguration and amid ongoing demonstrations that have left over 270 people, including children, dead.
Security forces, including snipers, blocked access to the airport and used tear gas to disperse crowds, underlining the volatile atmosphere.
The constitutional court upheld Chapo’s victory with 65% of the vote, while Mondlane garnered 24%.
However, Mondlane rejected the results and vowed to “install himself as president” by January 15.
Mondlane has been organizing protests via social media and pledged to continue the fight. “If [authorities] want, they can kill me, but the fight will continue,” he stated.
