New Mozambique Lawmakers Sworn in as Protests Resume

Daba Finance/Mozambique Lawmakers Elect New Speaker as Protests Resume

AFRICAN BUSINESS AND ECONOMYJanuary 13, 2025 at 11:09 PM UTC

TLDR

Mozambique’s newly elected parliament convened Monday under heavy security in Maputo, as 210 legislators were sworn in
Opposition parties Renamo and the Mozambique Democratic Movement (MDM) boycotted the ceremony
Margarida Talapa, a senior Frelimo member, was elected parliament speaker, calling for unity and dialogue

Mozambique’s newly elected parliament convened Monday under heavy security in Maputo, as 210 legislators were sworn in, marking the start of a contentious legislative session. Opposition parties Renamo and the Mozambique Democratic Movement (MDM) boycotted the ceremony, disputing the October election results, which they allege were rigged to favor the ruling Frelimo party.

The inauguration occurred amid protests and a national strike by opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who urged supporters to reject the results. Mondlane’s party, PODEMOS, entered parliament for the first time with 39 legislators, though four members were absent.

Frelimo retained its parliamentary majority with 171 seats. Margarida Talapa, a senior Frelimo member, was elected parliament speaker, calling for unity and dialogue to address public dissatisfaction with the electoral process.

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Key Takeaways

Mozambique’s new legislature begins its term under significant tension, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the election’s transparency. Opposition protests and a national strike underscore the growing discontent among youth and other groups demanding change. While PODEMOS and other opposition parties aim to challenge Frelimo’s dominance, the ruling party retains a solid majority. The election of Talapa as speaker signals Frelimo’s intent to position the parliament as a forum for dialogue, though achieving consensus may prove difficult in the polarized environment. With 40 legislators absent from the swearing-in, the parliament’s ability to navigate contentious issues and restore public trust will be a critical test for Mozambique’s democracy.

Mozambique

Southern Africa

Election

Parliament

Economy

Politics