Mozambican opposition chief Venâncio Mondlane, the runner-up in final month’s disputed presidential election, says he escaped an assassination try in South Africa, the place he sought refuge after contesting the outcomes.
In a video posted on Facebook, Mondlane mentioned he was in “mortal hazard” after the killers went to his home to attempt to kill him.
Mondlane mentioned he needed to soar out the again door and run by means of a hair salon, whereas carrying his luggage, accompanied by his spouse and daughter.
He offered no proof to assist his claims and Mozambican authorities didn’t remark.
Mondlane went into hiding about two weeks in the past, after his aide and lawyer were killed as they prepared to contest the results.
Daniel Chapo, the candidate of the ruling Frelimo celebration, was formally declared the winner with over 71% of the votes, in comparison with 20% for Mondlane.
Mondlane didn’t specify precisely the place the alleged assassination try occurred.
In the video, he mentioned he had been staying within the prosperous Sandton neighborhood of Johannesburg.
“I used to be with my spouse and daughter, working from place to position,” he mentioned.
South Africa’s overseas ministry advised the AFP information company it didn’t even know Mondlane was within the nation and that the matter ought to have been reported to the police.
The BBC contacted the South African police, however they didn’t reply.
Mondlane went into hiding earlier than the outcomes have been introduced, claiming his residence had been surrounded by members of the safety forces.
He referred to as on Mozambicans to carry nationwide demonstrations in opposition to the election outcomes, which have been contested in court docket by the Podemos celebration which supported Mondlane.
The protests led to violent clashes with the police and a number of other folks have been killed and dozens injured.
The web and social media have additionally been restricted.
The common strike referred to as by Mondlane continued, regardless of the prime minister’s enchantment to return to work.
Three kids have been reportedly killed by police in numerous elements of the capital Maputo on Monday, whereas eight folks have been killed within the northern province of Nampula over the weekend.
Two completely different Frelimo workplaces have been reportedly attacked in Nampula, prompting police to reply with tear fuel, rubber bullets and reside ammunition, killing one individual.
Protesters then set fireplace to the home allegedly belonging to a police officer accused of killing a protester.
Mondlane rallied folks to collect for a “remaining march” in Maputo on Thursday.
It is anticipated to be the top of a seven-day protest he referred to as final week.
