Flee or stay in the face of post-election violence in Mozambique? This is the dilemma faced by thousands of people. Since the October 9 elections, nearly 300 people have been killed in protests, while nearly 3,000 residents, Mozambicans and refugees, have fled their homes to seek refuge in Malawi or Eswatini. Others remain, trapped in a climate of terror.
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The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) warns of a humanitarian crisis At Mozambiquewhile thousands of inhabitants took the road, sometimes dangerous, to exile in neighboring countries.
Those on the run include refugees and asylum seekers living in Mozambique like Alexander Ndachaisaba. Aged 23, this young Tanzanian settled in Maputo in the hope of a better future. But faced with the rise in violence, he had to close his business.
“ The place was no longer safehe explains. Strangers came and asked: “Who are you for?” If you answered that you supported Daniel Chapo, they replied: “They will burn you, because they hate those who support him.” Once in their hands, they would burn you or destroy your belongings. We all had to abandon our possessions. »
Alexander has since left the Mozambican capital. He is heading towards the border with the Malawiwhere hundreds of people have already found refuge. Meanwhile, some choose to stay, like this Mozambican resident who calls on leaders to overcome their political differences: “ I hope the government and parties can engage in dialogue to resolve the country’s problems. »
Daniel Chapo, declared winner of the presidential election of October 9 by the Constitutional Council, must be invested on January 15. A deadline which could aggravate tensions.
In a statement released on New Year’s Day, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) called on all parties to exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue to avoid a further escalation of violence.
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