In an unprecedented act of brazen political interference, disregard of constitutional processes and undiplomatic conduct toward a neighbouring country likely to cause regional uproar, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa – who is currently the Southern African Development Community chair – has arbitrarily congratulated Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo and its presidential election candidate Daniel Chapo for their “resounding victory” in the recent elections even though election results have not yet been announced by the Mozambique Electoral Commission, which is supposed to be an independent and impartial constitutional body.
Mozambicans voted on 9 October and results are expected on Friday, yet Mnangagwa has already announced the winner.
This comes as Mozambique is now reeling from protests and violence amid allegations of vote manipulation, rigging and fraud, which have resulted in killing of opposition activists.
Riot police have been fighting running battles with opposition supporters loyal to Chapo’s main rival Venancio Mondlane.
Election observer missions have reported electoral fraud in the disputed elections, which Mnangagwa has already endorsed in violation of the Mozambican constitution and the Sadc election principles and guidelines governing democratic elections.
Mnangagwa’s flawed and disputed re-election was rejected by the Sadc election observer mission led by former Zambian vice president Nevers Mumba during Zimbabwe’s polls last year in August.
This led to regional divisions and confrontation between Mnangagwa and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
