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In a tragic escalation of political tension, three people have died and at least 66 others were injured during a protest organized by opposition supporters in Mozambique. The demonstration, aimed at challenging the government’s authority and policies, took place in several regions across the country.
According to local hospitals and eyewitness accounts, government security forces deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and, reportedly, live ammunition to disperse crowds in Maputo and other major cities. The crackdown resulted in a devastating scene of chaos, with hospitals flooded with wounded demonstrators suffering from both physical trauma and respiratory issues due to tear gas exposure.
The protest was organized by the Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO), the country’s largest opposition party. RENAMO leaders have criticized the government for failing to uphold democratic freedoms and for increasingly suppressing political dissent. “This level of violence against peaceful demonstrators is appalling,” a RENAMO spokesperson said, adding that the government has used excessive force to silence citizens’ concerns about poverty, unemployment, and corruption.
The Mozambican government has defended its actions, stating that the protests were unauthorized and posed a risk to public order. In a statement, officials accused the opposition of inciting violence and creating chaos to undermine national stability.
International human rights organizations have expressed alarm at the incident, calling for an investigation into the use of force against civilians. They urged Mozambique’s leadership to allow peaceful expression and dialogue instead of resorting to forceful measures that risk further destabilizing the country.
With tensions between RENAMO and the ruling FRELIMO party running high, analysts warn that this latest incident could mark a turning point in Mozambique’s political landscape, potentially sparking further unrest.
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