Mozambique’s newly elected parliament was sworn in on Monday amidst heightened security and a boycott by opposition parties Renamo and the Mozambique Democratic Party disputing the October election results. Armored vehicles and police surrounded the parliament in the country’s capital, Maputo, while streets were deserted following protests by supporters of opposition leader Venancio Mondlane. Mondlane, who claims the election was rigged in favor of the ruling Frelimo party, had called for a strike from Monday to Wednesday. Despite the controversy, 210 legislators, including 39 from the newly represented PODEMOS party, which supported Mondlane, took their oaths. In total, 40 legislators boycotted the swearing-in, including four PODEMOS members. Frelimo retains a majority with 171 seats, and its senior member Margarida Talapa was elected parliament speaker.
Source: VOA
