SA parties call for action amid Mozambique unrest and refugee fears

Mozambique

Cape Town – Amid growing violence and political instability in Mozambique, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has urged the Mozambican government to implement protective measures for South African nationals.

The DA has written to the defence minister, requesting a meeting to discuss the worsening security situation in Maputo, EWN reported.

“The Mozambican government is responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every person within its borders, and must take responsibility for the safeguarding of the human rights of every person residing in the country,” the report quoted DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp as saying.
Meanwhile, the African Transformation Movement (ATM) has urged the South African government to prepare for an influx of refugees from Mozambique.

“We urge the establishment of temporary stations along the South African Mozambican border, ready to assist Mozambicans seeking refuge from the violence.

“These stations should be equipped to register and accommodate those fleeing the unrest, ensuring that they receive the necessary support during this tumultuous time, with the army, police, and border control enhancing security efforts at the border,” said the ATM’s spokesperson – Zama Ntshona.

ATM also emphasised the need for proactive planning to avoid further destabilisation in South Africa.

Mozambique’s top court on Monday confirmed that Frelimo that has been in power for 50 years, won the October 9 vote, triggering four days of unrest that saw streets blocked, shops and businesses torched, and looting.

At least 134 people were killed in the unrest, according to local NGO Plataforma Decide, taking the overall death toll since the elections to at least 261.

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