Portugal warns its nationals to take extra care due to unrest in Mozambique

LISBON, Portugal

The Portuguese government on Wednesday updated for the second time its 25 October warning to Portuguese citizens in Mozambique to avoid gatherings and to take extra care with their security, given the social unrest in the country.

“In view of the current context of social instability and the occurrence of clashes between demonstrators and the police forces, it is recommended that all Portuguese citizens in Mozambique redouble their security precautions, particularly on 7 November,” reads the note from the ministry of foreign affairs, available on the Portal of the Portuguese Communities.

Today’s warning, which was first updated on 30 October, is related to the street protests that have paralysed the country, called by presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane.

The candidate has once again called on the public for a seven-day general strike since 31 October, with nationwide protests that have degenerated into violence and police intervention, and a mass demonstration in Maputo called for tomorrow (Thursday).

In the updated alert issued today, the Portuguese government considers that given the marches and demonstrations being organised, “with a particular focus on the city of Maputo and its outskirts, the recommendation to avoid popular gatherings is reiterated”.

“Due to the occasional restrictions on traffic, the recommendation is reiterated that any journeys should be duly considered and prepared. It is also recommended that prior information be obtained from the appropriate authorities about the absence of restrictions or limitations on movement. Whenever possible, for longer journeys, preference should be given to air travel,” the note adds.

The Portuguese government recalls that in recent days there have been “recurring limitations in access” to the Internet, “which are expected to continue in the coming days” and emphasises that, should the need arise, Portuguese citizens will be able to contact the consular emergency numbers of the Consulates General of Portugal in Beira and Maputo, as well as the Consular Emergency Office in Portugal.

Venâncio Mondlane does not recognise the results of the 9 October general elections announced by the National Electoral Commission (CNE), which gave victory to Daniel Chapo, supported by the Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo, the party in power since 1975), with 70.67% of the votes, but which still have to be validated by the Constitutional Council.

Today marks the seventh day of stoppages and demonstrations across the country, also called by Venâncio Mondlane against the election results, most of which have led to the intervention of the police, who disperse them with gunfire and tear gas, while the demonstrators cut off avenues, throw stones and set fire to public and private facilities, as had already happened in the protests on 21, 24 and 25 October.