The African Union (AU) has voiced grave concerns over the escalating violence that has erupted in Mozambique following the announcement of the October 9th general election results. In a strongly worded statement released Thursday, AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat condemned the post-election unrest, which has tragically claimed the lives of more than 100 civilians and left hundreds injured, according to local media reports.
Chairperson Mahamat extended his deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by this tragic violence. He issued a fervent appeal for calm and restraint, urging all parties involved to prioritize peaceful conflict resolution. He specifically called upon Mozambique's security forces to exercise maximum restraint in their response to the unrest, emphasizing the critical need to maintain law and order while protecting the rights and safety of all citizens.
The Chairperson's statement underscored the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, urging the Mozambican government, political parties, and civil society organizations to engage in constructive dialogue and find common ground to prevent further bloodshed and property damage. He stressed the importance of upholding constitutional democracy and the rule of law in the face of this challenging situation Xinhua reported.
The AU's commitment to supporting Mozambique in this critical juncture was also highlighted. Chairperson Mahamat reaffirmed the organization's dedication to collaborating closely with Mozambican stakeholders, as well as regional partners within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), to facilitate a peaceful resolution, end the violence, and safeguard the country's democratic institutions. The statement follows the Constitutional Council's declaration of Daniel Chapo as the winner of the election on Monday, a decision that appears to have sparked the widespread unrest. The AU's intervention underscores the severity of the situation and the international community's concern for the stability and well-being of the Mozambican people.