Zimbabwe’s Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating security situation in neighbouring Mozambique.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony for Junior Staff Course Number 81 at the Zimbabwe Staff College in Harare on November 15, Muchinguri-Kashiri emphasised that the ongoing crisis threatens Zimbabwe’s national interests and regional stability.
Economic Implications for Zimbabwe
Muchinguri-Kashiri highlighted that Mozambique is a crucial gateway for Zimbabwe to access the sea, making regional security a vital concern for the country’s economic and strategic interests.
She stated:
“We continue to monitor the security threats prevailing in the region, particularly Mozambique and eastern DRC. We are following these security developments with a keen eye.”
Political Unrest Following Elections
The instability in Mozambique has been exacerbated by allegations of widespread fraud in the October 9 general elections.
These allegations have sparked a nationwide movement protesting against the ruling FRELIMO party, which has been in power since Mozambique’s independence.
The political unrest is further complicated by an ongoing jihadist insurgency in the northern region, leading to violent clashes following the disputed election results.
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Tragically, over 30 people have lost their lives in the protests, including prominent figures such as Elvino Dias, the lawyer for opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane.
Dias was preparing a legal challenge to the election outcome when he was killed alongside Paulo Guambe, a parliamentary candidate from the Podemos party, while traveling together in Maputo on October 18.
International Condemnation
The brutal attack on Dias and Guambe has shocked the nation and drawn widespread international condemnation.
Statements from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, as well as responses from the U.S. and the European Union, have highlighted global concern over the violence and instability in Mozambique.
Importance of Stability for Zimbabwe
For Zimbabwe, the unrest in Mozambique is particularly concerning due to its implications for trade and economic cooperation.
Mozambique provides Zimbabwe with its shortest route to the sea and is essential for electricity imports that help address ongoing power shortages.
As such, stability in Mozambique is vital for Zimbabwe’s economic well-being.
As the situation continues to develop, Zimbabwe remains vigilant, recognizing that peace and stability in Mozambique are crucial not only for its own national interests but also for regional security as a whole.
Source: Pindula