As Mozambique faces a political dilemma following a contentious national election and violent demonstrations, the conditions at its southern border with South Africa are becoming increasingly unstable, impacting trade and travel.
The unrest in Mozambique has necessitated the rerouting of trade and travel from South Africa’s Leebombo Border Post to Eswatini’s Mananga Border Post, with Mananga acting as a temporary lifeline for individuals attempting to cross from Mozambique.
Michael Masiapato, the commissioner of South Africa’s Border Management Authority, conveyed to VOA that while officials are addressing the crisis, it still presents considerable difficulties.
“Even … when they deploy the military and when they deploy police officers along the corridor [between the capital, Maputo, and the border], it is unable to monitor all areas,” he stated.
The demonstrations, he noted, are “remarkably sporadic” and “widely spread.”
After presidential candidate Daniel Chapo’s contentious election win on Monday, Mozambique descended into chaos, resulting in numerous fatalities amid violent protests.
Some experts voiced their apprehension that ongoing political unrest could destabilize regional security and hinder economic growth, potentially leading to an increase in arms proliferation and criminal enterprises.
Solomon Mondlane, a political expert in Mozambique, shared with VOA that he maintains cautious optimism regarding South African and European initiatives that may help mitigate the situation.
“The conditions are unstable,” Mondlane remarked. “The positive aspect is we’re hearing growing calls from various nations — from South Africa, as well as other European countries — advocating for enhanced dialogue. South Africa has declared its willingness to facilitate a discussion.
“We recognize that South Africa’s ANC-led administration has historically supported Frelimo,” the ruling political entity, he elaborated. “They were the first to extend congratulations to Frelimo for triumphing in these manipulated elections. However, we are pleased that they are now responding to calls for facilitating dialogue between Mozambique’s opposition and the ruling party.”
Levy Ndou, a South African political analyst and lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology in Johannesburg, expressed his belief that the efforts of regional actors to engage in dialogue with the Mozambican government are promising indicators that many in the region are striving for peace and stability.
“Certainly, if the situation spirals out of control, it will necessitate the involvement of SADC to ensure that peace is maintained, stability is achieved, and that economic activities can flourish,” Ndou remarked, mentioning the Southern African Development Community.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the chair of SADC, stated that the regional organization is prepared to support Mozambique.