By Wesley Omondi
BEIRA, AUGUST 24, 2024 (CISA)- As Mozambique embarks on nationwide presidential and legislative electoral campaigns beginning on August 24, 2024, Most Rev Claudio Dalla Zuama, SCI, the archbishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Beira, Mozambique, has called on political leaders to prioritize peace and policy over conflict and hate speech.
With the general elections set for October 9, the Archbishop’s message comes at a critical time, emphasizing the importance of a constructive and respectful campaign atmosphere.
“This is a time to showcase what each party stands for, to engage citizens in meaningful dialogue about the future of our nation,” the Archbishop said, warning “It should not be a platform for sowing discord and hatred.”
Archbishop Dalla Zuanna’s appeal is on the backdrop of Mozambique’s conflict ridden elections, where electoral periods have often been marred by violence and verbal hostility. He urged the country’s political leaders to use this campaign season to present clear and substantive policies rather than resorting to personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric.
The Archbishop’s concern is particularly poignant given the turbulent political climate Mozambique has witnessed in the past. The municipal elections of October 2023 were notably contentious, with protests erupting in several areas, leading to a heavy-handed police response that resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals.
The National Election Commission (CNE) had declared the ruling FRELIMO party victorious in 64 out of the 65 contested positions, including areas traditionally considered strongholds of the opposition RENAMO party. The official results were met with skepticism, as independent bodies conducting parallel vote tabulations raised questions about the accuracy of the CNE’s announcements.
“A peaceful and transparent election is the cornerstone of democracy,” he noted, adding “The Election Commission and law enforcement must act with fairness and respect for the law, ensuring that every citizen’s vote counts and that the electoral environment is safe and just.”
In his statement, Archbishop Dalla Zuanna also addressed the CNE and the police, urging them to uphold their duties with impartiality and integrity. He emphasized that the conduct of these institutions is crucial in fostering public trust and ensuring a fair electoral process.
“When campaigns are conducted with respect and focus on real issues, people are more likely to participate,” he said, emphasizing “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this election strengthens, rather than weakens, our democratic foundations.”
