October 22,2024

SADC Appeals for Peace and Stability in Mozambique Following 2024 General Elections

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has issued a strong call for peace and restraint in Mozambique following the general elections held on October 9, 2024. Voters participated in Presidential, Legislative, and Provincial polls, which were conducted largely in accordance with the constitution and in a peaceful manner. However, concerns have risen after the deaths of two political figures, raising fears of potential unrest.

Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania and Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, addressed the situation, noting the tragic deaths of Mr. Paulo Guambe, a representative of the PODEMOS political party, and Mr. Elvino Dias, a lawyer for the same party, on October 19, 2024. Investigations are ongoing, and Dr. Hassan has called for patience and calm during this sensitive period.

"We urge all stakeholders to exercise restraint whilst relevant authorities carry out investigations," Dr. Hassan emphasized, highlighting the need for peace to prevent tensions from escalating.

While the elections were a milestone for Mozambique, the post-election period has become tense due to these deaths. SADC urged all parties to ensure peace and stability continue, particularly as the Electoral Management Bodies and other institutions work toward finalizing and announcing the official results in the coming days.

Dr. Hassan reaffirmed, “The elections in the Republic of Mozambique took place in a peaceful manner. It is this spirit that SADC urges all stakeholders to uphold in the period before and after the official announcement of the election results.”

SADC’s involvement underscores the regional commitment to supporting democratic transitions and ensuring security. The organization's close monitoring aims to prevent a repeat of the violent political transitions seen elsewhere in southern Africa.

With the political future of Mozambique at stake, SADC’s message is clear: peace and cooperation are the keys to a stable and democratic future. The region and the world watch closely as Mozambique navigates this critical moment guided by the rule of law.