Venancio Mondlane, Mozambique’s main opposition leader, returned from exile on Thursday, prompting clashes between his supporters and security forces at Maputo’s Mavalane International Airport. Mondlane fled the country in October after a contested election marred by allegations of rigging and violence, including the assassination of two senior opposition members. Security forces fired tear gas at hundreds of supporters who had gathered near the airport to welcome him, while police blocked surrounding roads and a helicopter hovered overhead. Since the disputed October 9 election, which declared the long-ruling Frelimo party victorious, over 100 protesters have been killed by security forces. Despite the protests, the Constitutional Council upheld Frelimo’s victory, with president-elect Daniel Chapo set to succeed Filipe Nyusi next week.
Source: AP
