Statement by the Spokesperson on the General and Provincial elections in Mozambique

17.10.2019
Brussels

Statement by the Spokesperson on the General and Provincial elections in Mozambique

The historic Peace and Reconciliation Agreement signed in Maputo on 6 August was an inspiration to the outside world: the electoral process which has followed is a real test of the readiness of Mozambique's political actors and institutions to maintain and protect the freedoms and rights which will help to bring the benefits of the peace to citizens.

The elections demonstrated clearly the democratic aspirations of Mozambicans, despite the challenges of the polarised environment. At the same time, amongst the first findings of the EU Election Observation Mission are that the election campaign was marked by violence, including attacks and intimidation, and by limitations on freedom of assembly and civil society observation activities. The Mission will stay on the ground until the electoral process is completed before issuing its final report.

Looking ahead, the EU expects stakeholders to channel any electoral disputes through the established institutional mechanisms in line with the relevant electoral laws. Election authorities should ensure a transparent process of tabulation and the judicial authorities should effectively address possible complaints and appeals.

The European Union is ready to work closely together with the elected government on implementing political and economic reforms, and to support the peace agreement and post-cyclone reconstruction.

 

Daniel Puglisi
Press Officer for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management/Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
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