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The United States government on Monday condemned the killing of two Mozambique opposition figures by gunmen over the weekend, ahead of planned protests against a contested election result. Washington called for a “swift and thorough investigation into the murders.”
Why This Matters
As the largest bilateral donor to Mozambique, the U.S. provides more than $560 million in annual assistance, according to the U.S. State Department. This makes the U.S. a key player in the region, adding weight to its calls for accountability.
The U.S. joined the European Union and Portugal, Mozambique’s former colonial ruler, in condemning the killings of opposition lawyer Elvino Dias and party official Paulo Guambe. Both were shot while travelling in a car on Saturday.
Key Statements
“The United States condemns the killings of lawyer Elvino Dias and Podemos parliamentary candidate Paulo Guambe in Mozambique,” said the U.S. State Department in a statement. “We join the calls made by all four of Mozambique’s national political parties in urging a swift and thorough investigation.”
Context
On Monday, Mozambique police fired tear gas and bullets at protesters in the capital, Maputo, who had gathered near the site where the opposition figures were killed. The murders occurred following a disputed election held on October 9, where early results suggest the ruling party, Frelimo, is poised for victory. Opposition candidates allege widespread fraud.
Frelimo, which has governed Mozambique since 1975, faces accusations of electoral fraud from opposition leaders, civil society, and international observers—charges it denies. The U.S. State Department urged all parties to resolve disputes peacefully and lawfully, rejecting violence and inflammatory rhetoric.
