Mozambique opposition leader returns amid tensions, declares himself 'president'

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - After months of self-imposed exile following October's disputed elections, Mozambique's opposition leader Venancio Mondlane returned to the country Thursday amid escalating tensions.

At the airport, where he was surrounded by reporters, he declared himself "president elected by the people."

Speaking to the press, Mondlane asserted he is a "president elected by the Mozambican people, not by the Constitutional Council," reiterating his rejection of the October election results validated by the country’s highest electoral authority.

He reaffirmed his dedication to his supporters, condemning the violence that led to the deaths of his followers in the post-election unrest. "I will stand with my supporters, mourn those we lost, and continue to fight alongside them on the ground," he said.

Mondlane’s return sparked a large turnout of supporters heading toward a rally he had organized in Maputo, the capital.

Police intervened, firing shots into the air to disperse the crowd. Authorities cited public order concerns, but the move further fueled unease among opposition members.

The opposition leader also expressed a willingness to engage with the government, though he emphasized that any dialogue would occur "on his terms."

Mondlane referred to his return as a pivotal moment for Mozambique’s democracy, stressing the importance of accountability and justice regarding the electoral disputes.

Since the Oct. 9 elections, Mozambique has experienced political instability, with the opposition alleging irregularities and violence that marred the process.

While the government has yet to comment on Mondlane’s statements, analysts caution that his return could exacerbate the political divide if reconciliation efforts are not pursued promptly.