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Zimbabweans in Mozambique urged to stay indoors
09 Nov 2024 at 17:06hrs | Views
Zimbabwe's Ambassador to Mozambique, Victor Matemadanda, has advised Zimbabwean nationals residing in Mozambique to stay indoors until the current political unrest in the country subsides. This follows ongoing protests by opposition supporters challenging the results of Mozambique's October 9, 2024, election, which saw the ruling party Frelimo secure another term.
In an update on the situation, Ambassador Matemadanda reassured Zimbabweans in Mozambique and those planning to travel there for business that the political environment, though tense, is not as severe as it may appear on social media. "My advice is that our people should stay indoors until the situation normalises. They should keep away from the demonstrations," he said, emphasizing the importance of avoiding gatherings for safety.
Matemadanda confirmed that no Zimbabweans have been harmed in the protests so far. He reminded Zimbabweans of the importance of staying safe and avoiding involvement in any political activity, stating, "They should not forget they are in a foreign land. Once violence starts, it will not distinguish a local from a foreigner."
For those planning to travel to Mozambique, Matemadanda warned that transport services may be disrupted, advising caution and preparedness for potential delays.
The regional political landscape will also be a focal point at the upcoming Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, scheduled in Harare from November 16 to 20. Leaders will discuss the recent Mozambican elections, along with Botswana's elections and Namibia's upcoming poll in December.
Meanwhile, veterans of Mozambique's liberation struggle have voiced their views on the election outcome, emphasizing that the results are final once declared by the Constitutional Council. Mozambique's former president Joaquim Chissano highlighted that candidates disputing the results should present evidence to the National Elections Commission and the Constitutional Court.
With preparations well underway, Zimbabwe is set to host this significant regional meeting, welcoming heads of state and government from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to address these crucial matters.
In an update on the situation, Ambassador Matemadanda reassured Zimbabweans in Mozambique and those planning to travel there for business that the political environment, though tense, is not as severe as it may appear on social media. "My advice is that our people should stay indoors until the situation normalises. They should keep away from the demonstrations," he said, emphasizing the importance of avoiding gatherings for safety.
Matemadanda confirmed that no Zimbabweans have been harmed in the protests so far. He reminded Zimbabweans of the importance of staying safe and avoiding involvement in any political activity, stating, "They should not forget they are in a foreign land. Once violence starts, it will not distinguish a local from a foreigner."
For those planning to travel to Mozambique, Matemadanda warned that transport services may be disrupted, advising caution and preparedness for potential delays.
The regional political landscape will also be a focal point at the upcoming Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, scheduled in Harare from November 16 to 20. Leaders will discuss the recent Mozambican elections, along with Botswana's elections and Namibia's upcoming poll in December.
Meanwhile, veterans of Mozambique's liberation struggle have voiced their views on the election outcome, emphasizing that the results are final once declared by the Constitutional Council. Mozambique's former president Joaquim Chissano highlighted that candidates disputing the results should present evidence to the National Elections Commission and the Constitutional Court.
With preparations well underway, Zimbabwe is set to host this significant regional meeting, welcoming heads of state and government from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to address these crucial matters.
Source - The Herald
