Transport disruption and rising tensions mark the return of Mozambique’s opposition leader, Venancio Mondlaneyesterday morning (January 9) to Maputo.
According to a monitoring report by Plataforma Decide, Mondlane fled the country after disputed elections in October that sparked violent protests that have so far killed 278 protesters.
Security company G4S has received reports that traffic at the airport has been closed. “Passengers arriving at night (January 8) had to walk outside the area to find transport,” the company said.
Mondlane’s return was met with a heavy police presence, with thousands of supporters gathering at the airport to welcome him, according to Reuters:. Witnesses said tear gas was used to disperse the crowd, while snipers were seen on buildings near the airport.
One of the inbound tour operators in Mozambique confirmed the tense atmosphere. “Fortunately, he (Mondlain) was not arrested, which would have had disastrous consequences. But the situation is certainly tense.”
Airlink said flights between South Africa and Mozambique have so far not been affected, but the airline continues to monitor the situation closely. G4S said that, except for the airport area, the situation was largely calm in Maputo city and province, although noticeable. is a reduction in public transport.
Owner of Mozambique Tours, Ricky JacobsWhen it came to security issues, the problem was confined to the Maputo area, while other tourist areas such as Inhambane, Vilanculos, Beira, Pemba and Nacala remained completely safe.
He added that even during the days of the country’s civil war, tourist destinations outside Maputo remain safe.
He said there could be a problem for people driving from Maputo if there was unrest, but that there were no problems for tourists flying in.
Jacobs warned, however, that the situation could change in a moment, depending on the actions and statements of political leaders. He said he believed, through his connections, that Mondlane would make an announcement after Daniel Chapo’s inauguration on January 15, which could lead to renewed protests. to cause