By Burnett Munthali
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in her capacity as the chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has made an appeal for peace and calm as Mozambicans anxiously await the official results of the recent presidential, legislative, and provincial elections.
In a statement, President Suluhu Hassan acknowledged that the electoral management bodies and other relevant institutions in Mozambique are in the process of finalizing the results. She emphasized the importance of maintaining order during this critical period of transition, urging all stakeholders to respect the democratic process.
“Following the unfortunate incident of the death of Paulo Gaumbe, a representative of the PODEMOS political party, and Elvis Dias, the party’s lawyer, on October 19th, SADC calls upon the law enforcement authorities of Mozambique to take all necessary measures to ensure an investigation is carried out,” President Suluhu Hassan stated.
The deaths of Gaumbe and Dias have raised concerns about the security environment surrounding the election process. In light of these developments, President Suluhu Hassan reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to ensuring that Mozambique’s elections remain peaceful, transparent, and credible. She also called upon Mozambique’s law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and thoroughly in their investigation into the tragic deaths.
Mozambique recently held its general elections, where citizens voted to elect the President, members of the National Assembly, and provincial governors. This election is seen as crucial to the future stability of the country, as it comes at a time when Mozambique continues to face security challenges, particularly in the northern regions affected by extremist violence.
SADC has been closely monitoring the situation in Mozambique, with the regional body providing support through peacekeeping and security initiatives aimed at stabilizing the conflict-ridden areas. President Suluhu Hassan’s appeal for calm and her emphasis on the need for a peaceful resolution of the election process reflects SADC’s broader commitment to regional stability.
As the head of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, President Suluhu Hassan has a critical role in guiding the region through periods of political tension. Her call for peace comes at a pivotal moment for Mozambique, where any signs of unrest could have significant repercussions for the country’s political future and regional security.
SADC’s role in promoting peace and democracy in southern Africa has been evident through its efforts in Mozambique. The organization continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions, reinforcing the need for dialogue, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for democratic principles during and after the election process.
As Mozambicans await the official election results, President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s call for peace and her demand for a thorough investigation into the deaths of Paulo Gaumbe and Elvis Dias underscore the importance of maintaining stability in the post-election period. Her leadership within SADC, particularly in her role overseeing politics, defence, and security cooperation, remains critical as the region seeks to support Mozambique through this sensitive time.
The future of Mozambique’s democracy and security rests on the peaceful resolution of the election process, and SADC’s role in ensuring that this is achieved remains paramount.
