The African Union (AU) expresses its deep concern at the ongoing violence, particularly following the proclamation of the final election results by the Constitutional Council, which has already resulted in the deaths of 252 people.

In a statement, the chairman of the African Union Commission, Moussa Mahamat, said that he was continuing to closely monitor the latest developments in Mozambique following the general elections held on October 9, expressing "sincere condolences to the bereaved" and then calling for calm.

"The President also urges the government and all national political and social actors to seek a peaceful solution to resolve the current crisis, in order to avoid further loss of life and destruction of property," the statement said.

The AU also reaffirms its commitment to collaborate with the Mozambican government and national actors, as well as with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in order to put an end to the violence and guarantee the safeguarding of constitutional democracy in the Republic of Mozambique.

Mozambique has been experiencing tension since October, following demonstrations called by Venâncio Mondlane, the presidential candidate supported by PODEMOS, an extra-parliamentary party.

Following Monday's validation by the Constitutional Council (CC) of the results of the general elections held on October 9, which gave victory to Frelimo, the ruling party, and its presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, supporters of Venâncio Mondlane intensified the violence in their demonstrations.

(Photo DR)