Mozambique, once a Portuguese colony, emerged into independence in 1975, beneath the banner of the Liberation Front of Mozambique (FRELIMO). Since then, FRELIMO has dominated the nation’s political landscape, enduring a devastating sixteen-year civil war before peace was brokered in 1992. The party’s resilience has long been fortified by alliances with Marxist regimes abroad, notably the Soviet Union and Cuba, whose support has influenced more than just the outcome of elections—it has shaped the very methods by which power is retained.
The most recent chapter in Mozambique’s history, written on October 9, 2024, stands as a turning point. What should have been a decisive victory for change—a triumph not just for me, but for the people of Mozambique—was stolen by entrenched elites determined to maintain their hold on political power.
The question must be asked: How did FRELIMO survive what should have been an unequivocal defeat?
For the first time since independence, the aftermath of the 2024 election saw Mozambican citizens—especially women and disillusioned youth—rise en masse to demand justice. Government operations, including tollgates, were brought to a standstill as the nation unified in calling for electoral transparency and accountability. Movement through city streets became possible only by carrying visible emblems bearing my name, a testament to the people’s conviction that I was the true choice of Mozambican citizens. From October through December, factories shuttered, and daily life paused, as citizens young and old fixed their resolve on the dream of genuine democracy.
Yet, these hopeful aspirations were met with violence and repression. Riot police unleashed brutality on peaceful protesters, raiding homes and firing live ammunition into crowds, resulting in the loss of more than fifty lives. Among those tragically killed was Elvino Dias, my trusted personal lawyer, whose car was struck by a hail of bullets from unidentified assailants—a loss that remains deeply personal. As threats escalated relentlessly, I was forced into exile, compelled to leave the country I love for my own safety.
Despite our Constitutional Council endorsing FRELIMO’s false victory, hope persists in the country. The pro-democracy opposition continues to gain momentum. My new party—ANAMOLA, the National Alliance for a Free and Autonomous Mozambique—has officially launched to overwhelming enthusiasm. On the day our website went live, the surge of digital registrations nearly crashed the platform, a powerful indication of how strongly Mozambicans desire meaningful change and a chance for their voices to be heard.
Today, 9 October, marks one year since so many Mozambicans believed they stood on the brink of transformation—ready to leave behind decades of misrule, corruption, and underdevelopment. In quiet dignity, our citizens have since returned to their daily lives, but the anticipation for the upcoming municipal and general elections in 2028 and 2029 is palpable.
The crucial question remains: Who will champion electoral justice, accountability, and genuine democracy for Mozambique? Who will defend the courage of those who cast their ballots and stood up for their votes, even when FRELIMO responded with heavily armed riot police?
I am determined to do so. And I urge everyone reading this—especially those who may not yet grasp the full extent of what has unfolded in Mozambique—to stand with us. The world must keep its eyes on Mozambique. Our struggle for democracy is far from over, and your solidarity will be vital.
Venancio Mondlane is a Mozambican politician and former Member of Parliament who contested in the 2024 presidential election as then-supported by the opposition PODEMOS party.
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Vanguard Africa, the Vanguard Africa Foundation, or its staff.