President Filipe Nyusi’s proposal to declare a state of emergency across Mozambique has drawn sharp criticism from experts, who warn that the move may exacerbate the ongoing security crisis rather than resolve it.
Mozambique is grappling with escalating violence, property damage and public unrest following nationwide elections.
Armed opposition groups, including the Optimistic Party for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), have launched attacks on civilian infrastructure, government facilities and military personnel, displacing thousands.
Nyusi’s government faces mounting pressure to address the violence, attributed to armed opposition groups. The proposed state of emergency would grant sweeping powers to restrict civil liberties and deploy additional security forces.
However, critics argue that this approach overlooks underlying political, economic and social grievances driving the conflict.
“Declaring a state of emergency will escalate violence and undermine national reconciliation efforts,” said António dos Santos, a Maputo-based political analyst.
Experts emphasise the need for comprehensive strategies focused on dialogue, reconciliation and strengthening state institutions, while human rights organisations fear further abuses if a state of emergency is declared.
The opposition vows to continue armed resistance, accusing the government of electoral fraud and corruption. Many Mozambicans demand accountability and addressing root causes of conflict.
Former diplomat José Chissano stressed, “Violence cannot be solved by deploying troops. The government must engage stakeholders to find lasting solutions.”
“The government’s response so far has been ineffective in stopping the violence,” said Maria Nhambe, a resident of central Mozambique, which has been heavily impacted by recent attacks.
“We need more than just a state of emergency. We need to address the root causes of the conflict and hold those responsible accountable.”
Many feel that the government’s focus on security measures has overshadowed the need for dialogue and justice.
The opposition, which accuses the government of electoral fraud and corruption, has vowed to continue its resistance through armed struggle, rejecting any political solution that does not include fundamental changes in governance.
Human rights organizations have expressed deep concern over the potential for further abuses if a state of emergency is declared.
Despite these warnings, Nyusi remains firm in his stance, arguing that the state of emergency is necessary to restore order and prevent further deterioration of security.
In a recent speech, the president declared, “We must do everything in our power to protect our citizens and defend the sovereignty of our nation. The state of emergency will allow us to confront the violent elements threatening our peace.”
However, experts suggest that Nyusi’s approach is overly simplistic and fails to address the complexities of the situation. “Violence cannot be solved by simply throwing more troops into the mix,” said José Chissano, a former diplomat and peacebuilding advocate.
“The government must engage in a comprehensive effort to understand the underlying issues and work with all stakeholders to find a lasting solution.”
The international community is urged to monitor the situation closely, ensuring Mozambique does not descend further into violence.