In a shocking act of political violence, the lawyer representing Mozambique’s opposition presidential candidate, Venancio Mondlane, was brutally assassinated in the nation's capital, Maputo. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, claimed the lives of Elvino Dias, the lawyer, and Paulo Guambe, another candidate affiliated with the Podemos party. Both men were key figures backing Mondlane's bid for the presidency in the recent October 9 elections.
Eyewitnesses reported that two gunmen targeted their vehicle while it was stationary on a road in the central part of the city. The assailants opened fire, killing both men instantly. Albino Forquilha, leader of the Podemos party, confirmed the tragic incident, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of both men.
The killings have sparked widespread outrage, with Mozambique's national lawyers' association expressing "deep shock" at the assassination of Elvino Dias. Civil society groups have condemned the murders, labeling them as an attack on democracy. Mais Integridade, an observer group, described the act as "repugnant" and viewed it as a calculated attempt to intimidate political opponents in a critical election period.
Authorities have begun investigations into the incident but have yet to officially confirm the identities of the deceased. The European Union swiftly condemned the attack, calling for a full and transparent investigation to bring those responsible to justice. "In a democracy, there is no place for politically motivated killings," the EU statement read.
This tragic development comes as Mozambique awaits the official results of the October 9 elections, which are set to be released on October 24. Venancio Mondlane, a strong challenger to the ruling Frelimo party, declared victory soon after the polls, accusing the government of electoral fraud. Frelimo, which has been in power since Mozambique’s independence nearly five decades ago, claims it is leading in the ballot count. Tensions are mounting as Mondlane has called for protests on Monday, adding to the uncertainty and heightened political atmosphere in the country.
The assassination of Mondlane’s lawyer and supporter further compounds fears of escalating political violence in Mozambique, a country that has been struggling with governance challenges and electoral disputes.
