Mozambique’s opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has announced a five-day suspension of protests to allow international investigations into alleged police brutality.
The country has been embroiled in chaos since October, following the contested presidential election victory of Daniel Chapo from the ruling Frelimo party.
Chapo was initially declared the winner with 71% of the vote, but the percentage was later revised to 65% amid allegations of electoral fraud.
Mondlane, claiming he had won the election, spearheaded protests, sparking weeks of unrest and violent clashes.
At least 277 people have died, most from gunfire by security forces, according to monitoring group Plataforma DECIDE.
In a statement reported by Club of Mozambique, Mondlane promised to reveal the next phase of demonstrations in the coming days.
This temporary pause aims to facilitate international oversight of Mozambique’s spiraling crisis.
Neighboring South Africa has heightened security at its borders, citing concerns over spillover violence.
Authorities have also engaged Mozambique diplomatically, emphasizing the importance of stability for both nations.
