Chaos Erupts in Mozambique as Political Protests Lead to Massive Prison Break

In a dramatic incident spurred by protests over contested election results, more than 1,500 prisoners broke free from a facility in Maputo, Mozambique. This unrest claimed numerous lives and ignited widespread demonstrations against the long-standing Frelimo party's electoral victory.

More than 1,500 inmates have fled a prison in Mozambique during a wave of political unrest connected to disputed election results, according to authorities. The turmoil has already led to 33 fatalities and 15 injuries during violent encounters with prison guards. Police Chief Bernardino Rafael disclosed this information at a recent press conference following the outbreak of protests in the capital, Maputo.

Protests intensified on Monday after the Supreme Court confirmed the ruling Frelimo party, which has been in power since 1975, won the presidential elections held in October. Demonstrators approached the prison, exploiting the chaos to help inmates break through a wall and escape, Rafael explained.

These protests have transformed Mozambique's capital into a virtual ghost town, with many businesses shuttered and citizens reluctant to leave their homes due to fears of violence. This unrest is the worst seen in Maputo in decades. The Frelimo party's candidate, Daniel Chapo, was announced as the winner with a revised vote tally—initially reported at 71% support is now stated at approximately 65%, against his competitor Venâncio Mondlane's 24%.

The electoral dispute compelled Mondlane, who has since fled the country, to rally his supporters for protests, labeling the elections a sham. He warned of a potential "new popular uprising" if the results are not revoked. Since the elections, over 150 lives have been lost in the ensuing demonstrations. With protests escalating, looting, vandalism, and arson incidents have plagued police stations, banks, and other governmental buildings across Mozambique.