Mozambique’s Venâncio Mondlane Faces Strict Travel Ban

Mozambican Opposition Leader Venâncio Mondlane Placed Under Strict Restrictions

Venâncio Mondlane, a prominent opposition leader in Mozambique, has revealed that he has been placed under stringent restrictions following an extensive ten-hour interrogation by the Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday.

As part of the imposed conditions, Mondlane is required to notify authorities about any travel plans or absences from his residence exceeding five days.

“This means I cannot travel without informing the Prosecutor’s Office. I cannot be away from my home for more than five days,” Mondlane told reporters late Tuesday.

Speaking to the media after the prolonged interrogation, Mondlane expressed dissatisfaction with the process, stating that he was not informed of any specific charges against him.

“I cannot say what crime I am being accused of. We spent all those hours, yet they could not specify the allegations. However, they asked many questions related to protests, mobilizing demonstrations, inciting violence, economic disruption, and how these activities were connected to recent protests,” he explained.

Criticism of the Legal System

Mondlane criticized what he perceives as selective justice, highlighting the unresolved case of an attempted assassination against him while authorities swiftly acted against his involvement in demonstrations.

“We were given the opportunity to present case files we had already submitted to the Prosecutor’s Office last year, which have yet to receive a response. Now, the Prosecutor’s Office will review each case individually and provide necessary clarifications on their status,” he stated.

Allegations Against Security Forces

Mondlane also accused security officials of instigating looting and destruction, alleging that they had vandalized warehouses and shops before encouraging citizens to steal.

With his movements now being closely monitored, any violation of these conditions could result in more severe penalties, including preventive detention.

Despite these restrictions, Mondlane reaffirmed his commitment to staying in Mozambique and continuing his fight for justice alongside his supporters. He referenced the recent killings of young opposition supporters, which he claims were orchestrated by the government, as evidence of ongoing state-led repression.