The Center for Democracy and Human Development (CDD) says that Mozambique is currently experiencing one of the worst human rights crises since the birth of multiparty democracy in 1994.

The country has been experiencing post-election protests since October 21 and to date there have been around 128 deaths, including civilians (the majority) and police officers.

The CCD accuses the ruling party, Frelimo, of not making an effort to talk to the independent presidential candidate, Venâncio Mondlane, who has been calling for demonstrations.

A rehearsal for dialogue by the President of the Republic and Frelimo's Filipe Nyusi failed due to Mondlane's absence. "Recently, in a live broadcast, Mondlane said that he had presented what he called terms of reference for the dialog, but there was no response from the PR."

For the CDD, Frelimo's stance "reflects a historical pattern, since 1999, of governing without inclusion, against the popular will, and without meeting popular aspirations... and maintains power without room for political negotiations".

"The overall picture indicates that the current moves, which include the failed dialogue with the presidential candidates and the consultation of the various social segments, are merely public relations strategies to legitimize the election results and consolidate Frelimo's power," we read.

The political and human rights crisis in Mozambique exposes a scenario of growing repression and exclusionary governance. Without dialogue, without inclusion and with the continuous instrumentalization of institutions, the country is moving towards a management based on repression and security control, concludes the CDD.