Mozambique is set to hold a presidential election on Wednesday, with ruling party Frelimo seeking to extend its 49-year rule. The main challenger is independent Venancio Mondlane, amidst concerns over election credibility due to previous accusations of ballot-stuffing by Frelimo. The election also includes parliamentary and provincial governor votes in a country still affected by a civil war and ongoing violence in the north. The two leading candidates have promised to bring stability to the country.
Frelimo, which established a one-party state following independence, faces competition from Renamo, a former rebel group. Mondlane, representing a new party called Podemos, aims to appeal to young Mozambicans affected by poverty and unemployment. Despite the recent embezzlement of foreign loans leading to an economic crisis, analysts predict Frelimo will remain in power.
The election process will involve vote-counting starting immediately after polls close, with preliminary results expected on Thursday and final results due within 15 days. International observers are on hand to monitor the election. Leading candidate Daniel Chapo, a former law professor, would be Mozambique’s first leader born after independence if elected. The election has been described as “carefully stage managed” by Frelimo, amidst concerns over fairness and transparency.
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