Mozambique’s new president, Daniel Chapo, was sworn in Wednesday in a subdued ceremony in Maputo, overshadowed by an opposition boycott and nationwide protests over allegations of election fraud.
Businesses in the capital shut down, and streets remained empty as opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane called for a nationwide strike. Mondlane, who ran as an independent, rejected the election results, which gave Chapo 65% of the vote, extending the Frelimo party’s nearly five-decade rule. Mondlane, who received 24% of the vote, claims the results were rigged.
Chapo, 47, pledged in his inaugural address to focus on unity, human rights, and combating corruption in a country still grappling with post-election violence. Local civil society groups report that over 300 people have been killed in clashes since the October elections.
“Mozambique cannot remain a hostage to corruption, nepotism, and incompetence,” Chapo told the 2,500 attendees at the ceremony, which was heavily secured.
Police dispersed protesters near Independence Square after Chapo’s motorcade departed. The demonstrators included supporters of both Chapo and Mondlane, who were denied entry to the event.
Opposition parties Renamo and MDM joined the boycott, refusing to recognize Chapo as president. Mondlane has alleged electoral fraud and continues to advocate for his supporters from an undisclosed location in Maputo.
Chapo faces mounting challenges, including a fractured political landscape, economic instability, and accusations of electoral fraud. Analysts warn he must address systemic corruption and deliver on promises of economic reform and reconciliation to restore public trust.
Born in Sofala province, Chapo holds a law degree and a master’s in development management. His supporters describe him as hard-working and diplomatic, but critics question his ability to lead amid widespread discontent.
Chapo succeeds Filipe Nyusi, who steps down after two terms marked by unrest. Analysts say Chapo’s presidency represents a generational shift, but his legitimacy remains in doubt.
Mondlane, a former ally of the ruling party turned independent candidate, has emerged as a vocal critic of the government. He has called for systemic reforms, including changes to electoral law and decentralization of power. Reports indicate he is sheltering in Maputo after narrowly escaping an alleged assassination attempt last month.
Mondlane has accused security forces of targeting his supporters, echoing concerns raised by human rights groups over the government’s handling of post-election protests.
Political analysts argue Chapo’s success hinges on engaging with opposition leaders and enacting structural reforms. Calls for the dismissal of Mozambique’s police chief and the appointment of a new attorney general have grown louder as the country seeks accountability for human rights abuses.
Chapo, the first president not to have participated in Mozambique’s independence war, faces pressure to dismantle entrenched political and economic cartels while ensuring a peaceful transition of power.
