Mozambique restricts social media access amid post-election protests and rights concerns – JURIST

Internet monitoring organization NetBlocks reported Thursday that Mozambique has implemented restrictions on social media and messaging platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, amid escalating tensions following disputed presidential election results. The restrictions follow earlier mobile data disruptions that occurred on October 25, after election results were announced.

The social media shutdown comes as human rights organizations report serious violations of fundamental rights during post-election protests. Human Rights Watch documented that Mozambique security forces killed at least 11 people and injured dozens using live ammunition and tear gas during protests on October 24 and 25. Over 400 individuals have been detained for alleged public disorder.

Responding to the developments, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Khanyo Farisè, stated:

Mozambique’s authorities must immediately halt their escalating assault on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Across the country, police have cracked down on opposition protests with live bullets, tear gas, and arbitrary arrests… With more protests planned from 31 October, the government and security forces must respect and uphold everyone’s right to protest, express themselves, and access information in Mozambique.

The crisis stems from the October 9 presidential election, where Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party was declared the winner with 71 percent of the vote. Opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane, who received 20 precent of the votes, filed a legal challenge on October 28 demanding a recount and alleging electoral irregularities.

The European Union Election Observation Mission, which deployed 179 observers, reported significant concerns about the electoral process. EU Chief Observer Laura Ballarín emphasized that “the publication of disaggregated results by polling station is not only a matter of good practice, but also a strong safeguard for the integrity of results.”

The EU observation mission documented vote counting irregularities and unauthorized changes to election results at both local polling stations and district offices. The mission also reported being blocked from observing vote tabulation procedures across multiple districts, provinces and at the national level, which raised significant concerns about electoral transparency. Adding to these concerns, international organizations including the African Union and United Nations have voiced strong opposition to the mounting violence, urging Mozambican officials to safeguard citizens’ rights.

The current situation mirrors previous electoral disputes in Mozambique. During the 2023 municipal elections, law enforcement officials were deployed to opposition strongholds following peaceful protests, resulting in violent confrontations between police and demonstrators.

Opposition leader Mondlane has called for seven days of protests beginning October 31, though he reportedly fled to South Africa after two of his aides were killed before the election results announcement.