Africa-Press – Mozambique. Amnesty International has urged Mozambican authorities to ensure a swift, independent and impartial investigation into the suspected poisoning of journalist Selma Inocência Marivate, with the aim of holding those responsible accountable.
In a letter addressed to the Attorney General’s Office (PGR), the organization also asks the authorities to publicly condemn any attacks or threats against journalists and human rights defenders in Mozambique, ensuring that press freedom and, more broadly, the right to freedom of expression, are respected and protected.
On July 27, Selma Marivate told Amnesty International that she suspected she was poisoned with heavy metals during a work trip to Maputo to facilitate the training of local journalists in March 2025.
Shortly after returning to Germany, where she currently lives and works, she began experiencing serious health problems, including fatigue, muscle weakness, nausea, kidney pain and loss of balance. After several inconclusive tests, a toxicological analysis conducted in Berlin confirmed heavy metal poisoning, including mercury, cadmium, uranium, and thallium, some found in dangerously high concentrations. Medical reports described the presence of certain substances in “physiologically unexplained concentrations”.
Selma Inocência is currently undergoing chelation therapy, the standard treatment for acute or chronic heavy metal poisoning. She remains in critical condition, unable to work or continue her studies.
“The case has been reported to the German police, but since it is very likely that the alleged poisoning occurred in Mozambique, the Mozambican authorities must urgently investigate the case,” Amnesty International insists.
The alleged poisoning of the Mozambican journalist occurred during a politically tense period in Mozambique, marked by post-election protests and a pattern of threats and violence against critics.
Selma Inocência was a vocal critic of human rights abuses taking place in Mozambique between October 2024 and February 2025, when nearly 400 people were killed during protests.
“Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case. In December 2024, Mozambican activist Wilker Dias, coordinator of the DECIDE Platform, also reported suspected poisoning in Maputo, corroborated by laboratory evidence. He had also travelled to Maputo for a week to participate in several public events. Despite public appeals, no investigation was conducted,” Amnesty International recalls.
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