Counting of votes underway in Mozambique following a peaceful election

Mozambique held elections on Wednesday, capturing regional attention as the country embarks on a significant leadership transition.

Around 17 million eligible voters were expected to participate, casting ballots for the President, members of Parliament, local assemblies, and provincial governors. Additionally, about 333,000 Mozambicans were anticipated to vote from diplomatic missions abroad.

President Filipe Nyusi and First Lady Isaura Nyusi cast their votes in Maputo, encouraging citizens to maintain peace during the election process. “I urge all Mozambicans to go to the polling stations with their voter cards and exercise their rights,” he said. “Let us make this an important occasion while remaining calm and ensuring everything unfolds peacefully.”

Four candidates are in the race to succeed Nyusi, who has served the maximum two five-year terms permitted under the country’s constitution. The President is elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, with a candidate needing more than half of the valid votes to win.

The ruling party, Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO), has nominated 47-year-old Daniel Chapo. FRELIMO, which has governed Mozambique since independence, is expected to maintain its influence. The main opposition party, Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO), is represented by 63-year-old Ossufo Momade, who is seen as Chapo’s strongest competitor.

Also running for the presidency are Lutero Simango, 64, from the Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM) party, and 50-year-old Venâncio Mondlane, supported by the Optimistic Party for the Development of Mozambique (PODEMOS) and the Democratic Revolution (RD).