The Observation Mission of the International Republican Institute states that "the current Mozambican elections were marked by several irregularities that raise serious doubts about their legitimacy".

According to the IRI observers' note, the lack of transparency and the intimidation of voters were dominant throughout the electoral process.

They also say that the alleged manipulation of voter registration data and the discrepancies found in the number of votes between the different elections reveal a deeply flawed process.

According to them, these issues must be addressed immediately in order to restore confidence in Mozambique's democratic process and defend the fundamental principles of free, fair and transparent elections.

Without swift action, they add, the credibility of Mozambique's electoral system - and its entire democratic framework - will be at risk.

They conclude by "strongly condemning political violence, including the assassination of important political figures, and call on the government and political parties to refrain from acts of violence."