Elvino Dias, the lawyer representing Venancio Mondlane, Mozambique’s leading opposition candidate in the October 9 elections, was shot dead in a shocking attack on Saturday.
Dias was killed alongside Paulo Guambe, a candidate from the Podemos party, who was also backing Mondlane.
Eyewitnesses reported that two gunmen opened fire on the vehicle in which the two men were travelling while it was stationary on a road in the heart of Maputo.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, prompting immediate condemnation from various quarters.
Albino Forquilha, head of the Podemos party, confirmed the killings to AFP, expressing grief over the violent act.
Meanwhile, the national lawyers’ association expressed “deep shock” at Dias’s death, highlighting the grave implications for legal representation and the rule of law in the country.
Civil society organization Mais Integridade described the murders as “repugnant,” labelling them an “act of intimidation” that undermines Mozambique’s democracy. They urged authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety of political candidates and their representatives.
In response to the killings, police announced that an investigation had been launched but did not immediately confirm the identities of the deceased men.
Mozambique is currently awaiting the official nationwide election results, which are set to be published on October 24. Following the polling day, Mondlane, who challenged the ruling Frelimo party—long in power since the country’s independence 49 years ago—claimed victory, alleging electoral fraud. Frelimo, however, asserts it is leading in the ballot counts.
In light of the ongoing tensions, Mondlane has called for demonstrations on Monday, further intensifying the political climate in the country.
