MAPUTO, Mozambique: Election observers in Mozambique have raised concerns about irregularities in the recent vote, which is expected to keep the ruling Frelimo party in power.
Observers from the European Union and the US-funded International Republican Institute (IRI) highlighted issues like potential ballot stuffing and the Frelimo party’s disproportionate use of state resources during the campaign. Frelimo has been in power since Mozambique gained independence 49 years ago.
Both observer groups expressed concerns about the voter registration process. The EU noted that voter registration exceeded 100% in some areas, while IRI pointed out inflated voter rolls, particularly in Frelimo strongholds. These discrepancies led IRI to conclude that the election fell short of international standards for democratic elections.
As official results are not expected for two weeks, tensions are rising. Opposition candidates, such as Venancio Mondlane, accused the regime of potential election manipulation. Despite outgoing President Filipe Nyusi stepping down, Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, is expected to win. Observers called on institutions to investigate these irregularities and urged political restraint.
