Mozambican opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has announced his return from exile after leading deadly protests over disputed elections.
In a Facebook live address, Mondlane vowed to land in Maputo on Thursday, standing with supporters despite escalating violence.
Protests he inspired have left 300 dead, as a local rights group reported, following the contentious October 9 presidential election.
Official results gave 65% of votes to Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo, while Mondlane claims victory based on alternate counts.
International observers noted irregularities, deepening doubts about the electoral process ahead of Chapo’s January 15 inauguration.
“If they are killing my brothers, I will be there,” Mondlane declared, promising to arrive at 8 a.m. at Mavalane Airport.
His return follows months of exile after his lawyer’s assassination, amid rising political tensions in Frelimo-ruled Mozambique.
