Following calls for statewide strikes by opposition leaders over a controversial presidential election, the international internet monitor NetBlocks reports that social media access has been limited in Mozambique for the second time in a week.
After the incumbent Frelimo party, which has ruled Mozambique for 49 years, won the October 9 election—a result that opposition parties and election observers say was faulty—tensions have increased throughout the country.
Social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp were blocked, according to NetBlocks, a London-based group that keeps an eye on internet outages. This follows a brutal crackdown on rallies and an earlier internet blackout last Friday, the day after election results were released.
Election Results and Internet Disruptions
The blackout that occurred last Friday was characterized by NetBlocks as a “near-total disruption to mobile internet connectivity,” affecting many Mozambicans’ ability to access information.
With over 71% of the vote, Daniel Chapo of Frelimo was proclaimed the victor of the October 24 presidential election. With 20%, Podemos party head Venancio Mondlane came in second.
Opposition supporters took to the streets in protest after the election results were announced. Conflicts with security forces resulted in at least 11 fatalities and over 50 injuries, according to Human Rights Watch. Police have reported two fatalities and twenty injuries, but they have not given any other information.
Continuous Protests and Calls for Strikes
Mondlane, a well-known opposition politician and former radio broadcaster, has mobilized supporters on social media. He has called for a statewide strike from October 31 to November 7 in defiance of social media prohibitions to protest what he says are unjust election results. By Thursday, Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, appeared empty, with many residents seemingly observing the strike.
Police in Mozambique have issued a warning to residents not to participate in “acts of sabotage” and warned that anyone causing “material or personal damage” would face consequences. The Podemos party, which gained traction in the election, has vowed to fight for electoral transparency and has appealed to Mozambique’s Constitutional Court for a recount. The court has given officials eight days to produce the necessary documents, and the situation in Mozambique remains volatile as political tension mounts and social media access is limited. Opposition leaders continue to push for transparency and justice.
(Africanews)
