Voting Begins In Mozambique As Ruling Party Seeks To Extend 49-Year Rule

Mozambique commenced its presidential election on Wednesday, as the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo) which has been in power for 49 years since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975, seeks to extend their tenure.

The ruling party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, 47, is vying to take over from President Filipe Nyusi, who has reached his term limit after serving two terms.

At least four other candidates are in contention, notably independent candidate Venancio Mondlane, 50, who is expected to pose the strongest challenge to Chapo and Frelimo’s long-standing dominance.

In addition to the presidential election, voters will also elect members of Parliament and provincial governors in the nation of approximately 33 million people.

Mozambique has faced significant challenges, including a violent jihadist insurgency in the north and severe climate issues that have resulted in flooding and drought.

The ongoing insurgency has forced over 1.3 million people to flee their homes, while millions more are grappling with severe food shortages.

Following last year’s local elections, which were marred by accusations of vote-rigging and fraud leading to violent protests in the capital, Maputo, this election cycle appears to have lessened concerns of unrest.