Mozambican Security Forces Kill At Least 10 Children Amid Post-Election Unrest, HRW Reports

Johannesburg, November 25, 2024 – Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned the actions of Mozambican security forces, reporting that at least 10 children were killed and dozens more injured during post-election violence in the country. The unrest, which erupted following the contested October 9 elections, has seen widespread protests against the ruling Frelimo party, which has been in power since independence.

HRW documented a particularly tragic incident where a 13-year-old girl was shot in the neck while fleeing gunfire and tear gas, instantly falling to the ground. The rights group also reported nine other cases of children being killed by gunfire and at least 36 others injured during the violent protests.

Mozambican authorities have not yet responded to the claims, and HRW also raised concerns about the detention of hundreds of children without notifying their families, a violation of international human rights law.

The violence has escalated in the weeks following the elections, which saw Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, declared the winner. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who claims he won the election, has been organizing protests, despite facing legal challenges. President Filipe Nyusi condemned the unrest as an “attempt to install chaos” and reported 19 deaths, including five police officers, with more than 800 people injured.

Civil society groups report an even higher toll, with more than 67 deaths since the unrest began and around 2,000 people detained. President Nyusi has invited Mondlane for talks, though the opposition leader has stipulated conditions, including virtual discussions and the dropping of legal proceedings against him. Mondlane, believed to be in hiding, has not been seen publicly since the protests began.(Reuters)