ZIMBABWEANS living in Mozambique should stay indoors until the political situation in the neighbouring country normalises, Ambassador to Mozambique Victor Matemadanda has said.
The call comes after protests by opposition supporters disputing the outcome of the elections held on October 9, 2024 that saw the ruling party Frelimo win another term in office.
Giving an update on the political situation and safety of Zimbabweans who are resident in Mozambique and those seeking to travel to the country for business, Ambassador Matemadanda said the situation was not as bad as portrayed on social media.
“My advice is that our people should stay indoors until the situation normalises. They should keep away from the demonstrations. Many people are preferring to be indoors. I think likewise Zimbabweans should do the same. They should try as much as they can to avoid gatherings, to make sure that they are safe,” said Ambassador Matemadanda.
Ambassador Matemadanda confirmed that no Zimbabweans had been caught up in the skirmishes so far.
“We have not seen or heard of any Zimbabwean who got injured or killed in Mozambique. I would like to advise Zimbabweans who are in Mozambique that they should not forget that they are in a foreign land.
“They should stay in their homes and not get involved in the protests. When they see people gathering or grouping they should try to avoid those gatherings. Once violence starts, it will not distinguish a local from a foreigner.”
He advised Zimbabweans who want to travel to Mozambique for business to be cautious as they might face transport challenges.
Next week, Zimbabwe will host an Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in Harare where the recent general elections in Mozambique and Botswana will be discussed.
Also up for discussion will be the Namibian elections slated for next month.
The summit will be held from 16 to 20 November, with preparations at an advanced stage to welcome the regional Heads of State and Government.
Meanwhile, veterans of the national liberation struggle in Mozambique consider election results as final when the Constitutional Council announces them.
According to Mozambique’s former Head of State, Joaquim Chissano, all candidates have the right to complain about irregularities, but should bring evidence to the National Elections Commission, and ultimately, to the Constitutional Court.
