Tensions Flare as Mozambique Opposition Faces Tear Gas During Protests

In Mozambique, police fired tear gas at opposition leader Venancio Mondlane and his supporters during a press session, amid tensions following a contested election and the killing of two opposition members. Mondlane had called for protests against alleged electoral fraud, intensifying conflict with security forces.

In a dramatic turn of events, police in Mozambique deployed tear gas against leading opposition figure Venancio Mondlane and his supporters as he spoke with the media on Monday. The incident reflects the growing tension in the country following a disputed election and the murder of two key opposition members.

Venancio Mondlane, a main contender against the long-ruling Frelimo party in the recent presidential election, was giving interviews near the location where his lawyer and a senior opposition official were killed by gunmen last Friday. The police intervention led to chaos, with tear gas forcing attendees to flee for safety.

Mondlane, who had urged a nationwide protest against alleged election fraud, criticized security forces for their aggressive tactics. The ruling Frelimo party, in power since 1975, is expected to win the elections with preliminary results favoring candidate Daniel Chapo. The killings have sparked accusations of political motivation, drawing condemnation from the EU and UN.

(With inputs from agencies.)