Clashes Erupt in Mozambique as Opposition Leader Mondlane Returns from Exile
Police in Mozambique fired live ammunition and tear gas on Thursday to disperse supporters of opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who had gathered in Maputo to greet him following his return from self-imposed exile.
The supporters had attempted to breach the main highway leading to Mavalane International Airport, where Mondlane had arrived. During his arrival, Mondlane addressed reporters outside the airport, reaffirming his commitment to negotiating with the government.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated as protesters, some of whom were injured during the clashes, threw rocks at the police in response to being pushed back as the situation remains tense, with widespread looting and vandalism, as the government blames Mondlane for inciting unrest as the government has also stated that Mondlane should be held responsible for the damages caused by the protests
