Mozambique leader meets opposition chief to reset relations

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A general view of a barricaded road in Maputo on March 5, 2025 after police dispersed protesters. (AFP/File)
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MAPUTO: Mozambican President Daniel Chapo met main opposition figure Venancio Mondlane for talks to ease tension following months of violent clashes between protesters and security forces, the president’s office said late on Sunday.

Political turmoil has gripped the nation since October’s disputed general election.

The election, which several international observer missions said was tainted by irregularities, was followed by more than two months of demonstrations and blockades, during which more than 360 people died, according to a local civil society group.

Chapo and Mondlane met in the capital, Maputo, to “discuss solutions to the challenges facing the country,” the presidency said.

“The meeting is part of the ongoing effort to promote national stability and reinforce the commitment to reconciliation,” it said.

Mondlane confirmed the meeting in a social media post, saying it had been aimed at “embarking on a mutual process in answer to the calls and desires of the Mozambican people.”

He said he would soon provide more details of the meeting as well as lay out the next steps.