Africa-Press – Mozambique. A study by the Institute for Multiparty Democracy (IMD) points to five provinces in Mozambique as the most susceptible to electoral violence. Gaza stands out as the most politically intolerant.
During the period covered by the study, which included the 2014 and 2019 general and 2018 local elections, the electoral constituencies of Nampula, Zambézia, Sofala, Gaza and Tete recorded the highest number of “electoral incidents”.
The IMD identifies the main types of incidents as political intolerance, obstruction of party caravan routes and intimidation.
Researcher Glécio Massango explains that the electoral campaign is the most dangerous phase of the elections, often degenerating into violence. “The closer we get to the elections, the more likely it is that illegal acts will occur.”
According to Massango, one of the causes of violence is the fierce competition between the main political parties in these areas. “These are provinces where competition between the main parties is relatively greater, that is, the difference between Frelimo and Renamo, for example, is minimal,” he explains.
Massango highlights that curiosity and tension surrounding the release of results are two other factors that contribute to the occurrence of violent episodes during the electoral process.
Gaza, most problematic province
Gaza is identified by the IMD as showing political intolerance at all stages of the electoral process. The election campaign is especially challenging for opposition parties and observers, researchers say.
Dércio Alfazema, programme director at IMD, emphasises that these electoral incidents undermine democracy in Mozambique and emphasises that “it is not enough, in the context of a full democracy, for countries to hold elections”.
“It is necessary to ensure that the constitutionally foreseen rights and freedoms of people can also be fully exercised,” he adds.
To address this challenge, Massango recommends regular electoral civic education, although he recognizes that “it may not give people time to absorb democratic values.”
The electoral campaign for the municipal elections on October 11th begins on Tuesday, September 26th.
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