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.
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